Frequently Asked Questions
We've compiled the most popular questions about CAD converters with detailed expert answers
Which format is better for 3D printing?
+STL is the gold standard for 3D printing, supported by virtually all 3D printers and slicing software. This format contains only geometric information without colors or materials.
🔵 STL
Best choice: Universal compatibility, fast processing, supported by all printers
🎨 OBJ
For color printing: Supports colors and textures, ideal for multi-color printers
⚡ AMF
Advanced format: Colors, materials, metadata, but limited support
🚀 3MF
Format of the future: Full support for colors, materials and print settings
Our recommendation:
Use STL for standard printing, OBJ for colored models, and 3MF for professional applications. Total CAD Converter supports all these formats with high quality preservation.
How to convert DWG to STEP?
+Converting DWG to STEP requires a special approach since STEP is a 3D format while DWG can contain both 2D and 3D data.
Check data type in DWG
Ensure your DWG file contains 3D geometry. If it's a 2D drawing, it needs to be converted to a 3D model first.
Choose professional converter
Total CAD Converter: Direct DWG → STEP conversion
AutoCAD: Export → 3D Model → STEP
FreeCAD: Import DWG → Export STEP
Verify the result
Check dimensions, units, and geometry integrity after conversion.
Expert recommendation:
Total CAD Converter provides the most accurate DWG to STEP conversion with preservation of all geometric parameters and metadata.
Can you convert a 2D drawing to a 3D model?
+Yes, but it requires additional steps beyond simple conversion. There are several methods for 2D to 3D transformation:
🔧 Extrusion Method
Convert 2D profiles to 3D by adding depth. Perfect for architectural plans and simple mechanical parts.
🌀 Revolution Method
Rotate 2D profiles around an axis to create cylindrical objects: bottles, gears, pipes.
📏 Lofting Method
Connect multiple 2D cross-sections to create complex curved surfaces.
🤖 AI-Assisted
Modern tools use machine learning to interpret 2D technical drawings.
Important to remember:
Fully automatic 2D to 3D conversion is limited. Most professional workflows require manual modeling guidance for accurate results.
Why does my model lose colors/textures during conversion?
+Color and texture loss occurs due to format limitations and conversion settings:
| Cause | Explanation | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Format Limitations | STL, PLY don't support colors | Use OBJ, COLLADA, FBX |
| Converter Settings | Color preservation disabled | Enable "Export Materials" |
| External Textures | Texture files not included | Keep textures with model |
| Material Systems | Different material definitions | Use professional converters |
Best formats for color preservation:
- OBJ + MTL — excellent material and texture support
- COLLADA (DAE) — full scene support with lighting
- FBX — professional format with animation
- GLTF — modern web standard with PBR materials
How to preserve construction history during conversion?
+Preserving construction history is challenging but possible with the right approach:
📋 Parametric Formats
Best options: STEP, IGES, Parasolid maintain feature information
Software-specific: .prt (SolidWorks), .ipt (Inventor), .f3d (Fusion 360)
⚙️ Native Conversion
Convert between similar CAD systems (e.g., SolidWorks → Inventor) to preserve more features
📝 Documentation
Export feature trees, dimension lists, and construction notes separately
Critical to know:
Complete history preservation is only possible within the same CAD software family. Cross-platform conversion typically results in "dead geometry" without editable features.
Practical tips:
- Keep original files as master copies
- Export feature trees as text documentation
- Use STEP for maximum information preservation
- Document critical dimensions and constraints
Is it safe to use online converters for confidential data?
+Online converters pose significant security risks for confidential data:
🚨 Security Risks
- Data transmission over internet
- Storage on third-party servers
- Possible content analysis
- GDPR, HIPAA compliance violations
- No control over data deletion
🛡️ Secure Alternatives
- Desktop software (Total CAD Converter)
- On-premise enterprise solutions
- VPN + trusted services
- Data sanitization before conversion
- Local processing without internet
🏢 For corporate use:
- Never upload proprietary designs to online services
- Use only verified desktop solutions
- Demand guarantees of data deletion from providers
- Conduct security audits of all used tools
Our recommendation:
For confidential or proprietary designs, always use offline converters like Total CAD Converter that process files locally without internet transmission.