OUR Simple Answer:

We use the 3D file to calculate the time and amount of material it takes to 3D Printing an object. Every objects is different.

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The Technical Answer:

STL files are commonly used in 3D printing because they efficiently represent the surface geometry of 3D objects in a way that 3D printers can interpret and build layer by layer. Here’s why STL files are essential in 3D printing:

1. Simplicity and Compatibility:
   • STL (Standard Tessellation Language or Stereolithography) files break down a 3D model’s surface into a collection of small, flat triangles (a mesh). This tessellated mesh represents the shape of the object without any internal details.
   • Most 3D printing software and slicing programs are compatible with STL files, making it a universal format for 3D printing.

1. Precision and Control:
   • The triangular facets in an STL file allow for precise representation of a 3D model’s surface. By adjusting the density of triangles, designers can control the smoothness and accuracy of curves and complex geometries.
   • STL files offer enough detail for most 3D printing applications, balancing file size and quality.

1. Easy to Slice into Layers:
   • Slicing software interprets the STL file’s mesh structure and translates it into layers for printing. The simple, triangulated surface makes it easier for the software to calculate each layer’s cross-section.
   • This format is essential for the additive layer-by-layer nature of 3D printing, where each layer is based on a “slice” of the 3D model.

1. File Size Efficiency:
   • STL files typically contain only surface geometry data and no colour, texture, or internal volume information, which keeps the file size manageable.
   • This makes STL files quicker to process and transfer between software and hardware compared to more complex 3D file formats (like OBJ or 3MF).

1. Longstanding Industry Standard:
   • STL files have been used since the early days of 3D printing and have become a well-established industry standard.
   • As a result, a wide range of software tools and 3D printers support STL files, making it the go-to format in 3D printing workflows.

In summary, STL files offer a practical balance of simplicity, precision, and compatibility, making them the ideal format for preparing 3D models for most 3D printing applications.