HomeCAD ConverterSCAD ConverterConvert SCAD to STL

Free Online SCAD to STL Converter

Or drag and drop your files here to upload.
A maximum of 20 files can be uploaded at once.

Please note: Your SCAD file, once uploaded to our server will be deleted 15 minutes after upload so please download your converted SCAD file before this time.

How to Convert your SCAD to STL Online?

Here are 2 simple steps to convert your SCAD to STL using our fast and free SCAD converter tool.

Upload your SCAD file

Click the "Upload a SCAD File" button, then select a SCAD to upload. The maximum file size is 100MB.

Download your STL

Click the download link to receive your STL file.

File format information for SCAD and STL

ExtensionSCAD
Full NameOpenSCAD
TypeCAD
Mime Typeapplication/octet-stream
FormatBinary

A SCAD file, short for "Script-based Computer-Aided Design," is a type of plain text file used primarily in the field of 3D modeling and design. It is commonly associated with OpenSCAD, an open-source software tool used to create 3D models using constructive solid geometry (CSG). Unlike traditional CAD software that employs a graphical user interface for modeling, SCAD files are written in a scripting language. These files typically have a .scad extension and contain a series of commands and parameters that define the shapes, dimensions, and operations required to construct the 3D model.

Within a SCAD file, users can define basic geometric shapes such as cubes, spheres, cylinders, and more complex shapes by applying operations like union, difference, and intersection to combine or modify them. The use of a scripting language in SCAD files enables users to create parametric models, allowing them to easily modify dimensions and characteristics of the model by changing variables in the script. This flexibility makes SCAD files particularly useful for designing customizable objects and prototypes, where various iterations may be required to meet specific design requirements.

Once a SCAD file is created and the script is defined, it can be rendered by the OpenSCAD software, which interprets the script and generates a visual representation of the 3D model. Users can then preview the model, make further adjustments if needed, and export it to standard 3D file formats like STL (stereolithography) for 3D printing or rendering in other CAD software. SCAD files have gained popularity among the maker community and designers due to their simplicity, modifiability, and compatibility with 3D printing technologies, facilitating the rapid prototyping of complex objects.

ExtensionSTL
Full NameStandard Triangle Language
Type3D Model
Mime Typeapplication/vnd.ms-pki.stl
FormatText
Opens WithBlender, MeshLab, CAD Assistant, DAZ Studio

An STL file, short for Stereolithography, is a widely used file format in 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD) applications. It serves as a standard method to represent the surface geometry of a three-dimensional object. The format was first developed by 3D Systems in 1987 and has since become a fundamental file type in the additive manufacturing industry. STL files are essential in the process of converting digital 3D models into physical objects through 3D printing technology.

STL files consist of a collection of triangular facets that approximate the shape of the 3D model. The surface of the object is divided into numerous small triangles, forming a mesh representation. Each triangle is defined by three vertices in 3D space and possesses information about its orientation and size. Since STL files store only the outer surface of the model, they are often referred to as "mesh" files or "surface" files, as they lack information about the object's internal structure or color.

When using STL files for 3D printing, slicing software processes the 3D model by dividing it into layers and creating the instructions for the 3D printer to build the object layer by layer. Despite its simplicity and widespread usage, STL files have some limitations. They do not support color or texture information, and the triangle-based representation can lead to larger file sizes and reduced accuracy compared to other file formats. Nonetheless, STL remains a vital format in the 3D printing ecosystem due to its simplicity and compatibility with a wide range of 3D printers and software.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I convert my SCAD file to STL?

First click the "Upload..." button, select your SCAD file to upload. Your SCAD file will be uploaded to our servers. When the SCAD to STL conversion has completed, you can download your STL file straight away.

How long does it take to convert my SCAD to STL?

We aim to process all SCAD to STL conversions as quickly as possible, this usually takes around 5 seconds however this can be longer for certain files, so please be patient.

How accurate is the SCAD to STL conversion?

We aim to provide the best conversion experience. Our tools are under constant review and development with new features being added every week.