How to Convert a SOLIDWORKS File to OBJ Format
Contents
OBJ is a mesh-based 3D file format commonly used in rendering, visualization, animation, and some 3D printing workflows. SOLIDWORKS models are usually parametric CAD files, so converting to OBJ means you are usually turning CAD geometry into a mesh. That conversion can be useful, but it also changes what the file is good for.
The safest workflow depends on what kind of model you have. If you are working with mesh or scan data, SOLIDWORKS may be able to export OBJ through ScanTo3D workflows. For normal SOLIDWORKS parts and assemblies, a common route is to export STL from SOLIDWORKS and then convert STL to OBJ in Blender or another mesh tool.
OBJ vs SOLIDWORKS files
| Format | Best use | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|
| SLDPRT / SLDASM | Editable SOLIDWORKS parts and assemblies | Needs SOLIDWORKS or compatible CAD software |
| STEP | CAD exchange between engineering tools | Does not preserve the full SOLIDWORKS feature tree |
| STL | 3D printing and simple mesh transfer | Triangle mesh only |
| OBJ | Visualization, mesh editing, rendering, some 3D workflows | Not a parametric CAD model |
When OBJ is the right export
Use OBJ when the receiving software expects a mesh for visualization, rendering, animation, or mesh editing. If the receiving software is another engineering CAD program, STEP is usually a better choice. If the goal is 3D printing, STL or 3MF may be simpler unless color/material mesh data is needed.
Method 1: Export OBJ from mesh or scan data
If you import mesh or point-cloud data into SOLIDWORKS and have ScanTo3D available, OBJ export may be available through the ScanTo3D file type. This workflow is mainly for mesh-style data rather than ordinary editable SOLIDWORKS features.
- Open the mesh or scan-related file in SOLIDWORKS.
- Use File > Save As.
- Choose an OBJ-related ScanTo3D file type if it is available in your installation.
- Save the file and test it in the receiving software.
Method 2: Export STL, then convert to OBJ in Blender
For normal SOLIDWORKS parts and assemblies, this is often the practical route. SOLIDWORKS exports STL reliably, and Blender can import STL and export Wavefront OBJ.
- Open the part or assembly in SOLIDWORKS.
- Use File > Save As.
- Select STL as the file type.
- Before saving, check STL options such as units and resolution.
- Open Blender and delete the default cube if needed.
- Use File > Import > STL.
- Select the STL exported from SOLIDWORKS.
- Use File > Export > Wavefront (.obj).
- Save the OBJ and test it in the destination software.
Important export settings
Check units, mesh resolution, and file scale before sending the file. A model that looks correct in SOLIDWORKS can import at the wrong size if the destination program interprets units differently. For mechanical parts, export a small test file first and confirm the dimensions in the receiving application.
If the shape has curves, higher STL resolution produces a smoother OBJ after conversion, but it also creates a larger file. Use enough resolution for the purpose without making the mesh unnecessarily heavy.
Common mistakes
- Sending OBJ when the client actually needs STEP for CAD editing.
- Assuming OBJ will preserve SOLIDWORKS features and dimensions.
- Forgetting to check units after import.
- Exporting an overly coarse STL and getting faceted curved surfaces.
- Exporting an assembly without checking whether separate bodies or parts are needed.
Which format should you send instead?
If the receiver needs to edit the part in CAD, send STEP. If the receiver needs a 3D print mesh, send STL or 3MF. If the receiver needs rendering, animation, or mesh editing, OBJ can be appropriate. For broader file-conversion workflows, the free SOLIDWORKS alternatives guide can help when you do not have access to SOLIDWORKS on every machine.
Bottom line
To convert a SOLIDWORKS file to OBJ, use a direct OBJ/ScanTo3D workflow only when it fits your file type. For normal CAD models, export STL from SOLIDWORKS, import the STL into Blender, and export Wavefront OBJ. Always confirm units, mesh quality, and the destination software’s requirements before treating the conversion as finished.
References: SOLIDWORKS mesh import/export Help, SOLIDWORKS STL export options Help, and Blender OBJ import/export documentation.
