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SOLIDWORKS Export Formats Explained: STEP vs Parasolid

Design and manufacturing workflows often require sharing CAD data between different systems, teams, or vendors. When working in SOLIDWORKS, choosing the right export format directly impacts:

 

      • Geometry accuracy
      • File size and performance
      • Compatibility with other CAD systems
      • Downstream manufacturing usability

 

Think of exporting files from SOLIDWORKS as translating your CAD model into another language. During this translation process, some design intent or contextual data may be lost in translation as the model is converted between systems and then re-imported (translated) into SOLIDWORKS or another CAD platform.

 

This guide explains the key differences between STEP and Parasolid file formats and when to use each for exporting your model from SOLIDWORKS.

 

Jump to Section:

What Are Neutral File Formats?

Neutral file formats allow CAD data to be shared between different software platforms without requiring the original native file.

Export Limitations

      • SOLIDWORKS FeatureManager Design Tree is not preserved
      • Assembly mates are lost
      • Some metadata may not translate perfectly

STEP File Format (ISO 10303)

STEP (Standard for The Exchange of Product data) is the most widely used neutral format for CAD systems. Each STEP type has capabilities that build on the previous version and include more information within the file.

 

Key Characteristics

      • Broad compatibility across nearly all CAD systems
      • Evolving standard with multiple versions (SOLIDWORKS uses 3 versions)
      • Supports increasing levels of metadata depending on the version

 

File Extensions

      • .step (most common and preferred)
      • .stp (equivalent to .step (older/shortened version)

STEP AP203

This is the first widely adopted version of STEP format and still one of the most used. This format primarily defines geometry and not much else other than the physical model.

      • Basic geometry and topology only
      • No colors/appearances or visual attributes
      • Best for simple data exchange

 

Use When:

      • Sharing basic models
      • Visual/appearance detail is not required
Viewing SOLIDWORKS Export with STEP AP203 example

STEP AP214

This version of STEP was introduced to include some of the data limitations in STEP 203. STEP 214 is the most used version for CAD file exchange.

      • Includes geometry, colors, and layers
      • Widely used across industries
      • Improved visualization over AP203

 

Use when:

      • Appearance matters (color-coded parts, clarity)
      • Working with assemblies
Viewing SOLIDWORKS Export with STEP AP214 example

STEP AP242

This is the most advanced STEP file format. It was developed to manage Model-Based Definition (MBD).

      • Includes:
        • GD&T
        • Dimensions
        • Custom properties

 

Use when:

      • Supporting paperless manufacturing
      • Sending data to CMM or inspection workflows
      • Using MBD in downstream processes

 

Note: Exporting AP242 from SOLIDWORKS requires the MBD add-in. It’s an export option available on the MBD CommandManager tab.

Viewing SOLIDWORKS Export with STEP AP242 example

Parasolid File Format

Parasolid is the native geometry kernel used by SOLIDWORKS. It’s the “language” of the underlying model engine.

 

Key advantages

      • Highest geometry accuracy when used with SOLIDWORKS
      • Minimal data translation required (it’s SOLIDWORKS native language)
      • Smaller file sizes compared to STEP
      • Better preservation of:
        • Faces
        • Edges
        • Model integrity

 

Additional Benefits

      • Maintains appearances more reliably than STEP
      • Faster import/export performance in SOLIDWORKS since it’s reading the same language
      • Reduced risk of geometry errors (gaps, stitching issues, etc.)

 

File Extensions

      • .x_t (text-based Parasolid file and most common)
      • .x_b (binary Parasolid file results in a smaller file size)
Viewing SOLIDWORKS Export with Parasolid example

STEP vs. Parasolid: Key Differences

Category
Parasolid
STEP AP2023
STEP AP214
STEP SP242
Geometry Accuracy
Excellent (native kernel)
Good
Good
Good
Color Support
✅
❌
✅
✅
PDM (GD&T, Dimensions)
❌
❌
❌
✅
Feature History
❌
❌
❌
❌
File Size
Smallest
Moderate
Moderate
Largest

File Size Difference Example

 

**Note the AP242 file contains MBD data, which increases file size considerably

Viewing export size comparison in file location

Best Practices for Exporting:

      • Always verify:
        • Units
        • Import settings
        • Geometry integrity after import
      • Communicate with vendors on preferred format before exporting

Summary

Choosing the right format ensures smoother collaboration, fewer errors, and better downstream results. STEP is ideal for broad compatibility across different CAD systems, making it the right choice for sharing models with external vendors. Parasolid offers highest geometry accuracy and performance when working within SOLIDWORKS or other Parasolid-based systems.

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Get help from our team by Calling us at 800-364-1652. You can also get assistance by clicking the Technical Support button or the Email Our Experts button below. 

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Last Updated On
byRick Braine
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