3Shape presently provides STL CAD design file export from its design software. Open STL CAD design file export means professionals can manufacture their designs on any mill and 3D printer.

The same part imported from STL, however, is one single mesh. Of course, in this case, it doesn’t matter much because he has the original file, the STEP, and the STL.

The most common reason an STL file may be not quite right is a mechanical connection where some piece isn’t quite as the designer expected, so the 3D model that interfaces with it no longer fits.