Why convert MODFEM to STL?
A .modfem holds a full FE model, but 3D printers and mesh viewers need a plain triangulated surface. Exporting to .stl gives the outer skin of the part as triangles, which is the universal input for slicers, printing and lightweight 3D visualization.
How to convert MODFEM to STL
Simcenter Femap - Export Geometry (STL)
With a meshed .modfem open, run File > Export > Geometry > Stereolithography (*.stl). Femap outputs the element free faces as triangles, splitting bricks' quad faces automatically.
Re-import to check the STL
Verify the result with File > Import > Geometry > StereoLithography; Femap merges coincident nodes and splits facets to close free edges, confirming a watertight skin.
About these formats
A .modfem file is the native model file saved by Femap (now Simcenter Femap), the finite element analysis pre- and post-processor from Siemens. It stores a complete FE model in one binary…
Open .MODFEM details →
.STL
Stereolithography / Standard Tessellation Language file
An STL file is a 3D model that describes a shape as a mesh of triangles. To view it, use Microsoft 3D Viewer (Windows) or Quick Look (macOS). To 3D-print it, open it in a slicer like…
Open .STL details →Quality & what to watch
- STL export requires a meshed model - geometry alone will not produce a usable skin.
- Only the outside surface is written as triangles; interior mesh, materials, loads and results are all discarded.
- STL stores no units or curvature, so a coarse mesh yields a visibly faceted part that may need remeshing before printing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a mesh to export STL?
.stl from the mesh's free faces, so an unmeshed model exports nothing usable.
