The Mechanical Part Import Module is used to import a 3D mechanical part from an STL file.
The object dimensions are displayed. If necessary, click on one of the units buttons so that the dimensions are correct. The volume, weight and total surface area of the object are also displayed.
Material properties
Select the desired material for the mechanical part. A selection of photopolymer or stereolithographic plastics are available for 3D printing. It is also possible to select aluminum (with a variety of finishes) for machining.
If a non-transparent plastic material is selected, then you may choose a paint color and finish.
Publishing
Once dimensions and properties are correct, click on the Publish button to publish the product.
When publishing the mechanical part product, you will be asked to include a STEP file with the imported product. A STEP file gives more accurate machining information than an STL file, especially if the object contains many detailed curved surfaces. For machined aluminum parts, a STEP file must be included.
Macaos Enterprise needs an STL file to display and calculate the dimensions of a mechanical part. And for simpler parts, the STL file is sufficient for manufacture. However, best results are obtained by importing both files to the product.