STL, 3MF, G-code: Managing Versions in 3D Printing
By the PandaFile team · · 5 min read
In 3D printing, the same object often exists in several forms: the original STL, a tweaked version, a 3MF with supports, and the G-code sliced for a machine. If nothing links them together, you end up printing the wrong one. This article extends the guide on organizing your fabrication files.
Understanding the three formats
Each format plays a specific role in the chain:
- STL: the raw geometry of the model, with no color or settings. The most common exchange format.
- 3MF: a richer project (multiple objects, colors, supports, orientation), designed for modern slicers.
- G-code: the machine instructions, sliced for a specific printer and profile. Not reusable elsewhere.
Naming and dating your iterations
Instead of "final", "final-v2", "really-final", adopt a clear marker: a version number or a date. What matters is knowing which one is right without opening it. A photo of the printed result attached to the version helps enormously.
Keeping the link between model and settings
As with laser cutting, a good 3D result is a recipe: machine, material, profile, supports. Attaching this information to the file avoids re-slicing blindly. That's what PandaFile enables: every fabrication keeps its parameters and a photo of the result.
It's not the number of versions that's the problem, it's no longer knowing which one worked.— PandaFile
In practice
Keep the source STL, the 3MF project, and the G-code together, linked by a tag or a collection, with the validated version clearly identified. See also organizing your STL files and previewing an STL.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between STL, 3MF, and G-code?
The STL contains the raw geometry of the model. The 3MF is a more complete project (multiple objects, colors, supports, orientation). The G-code is the sliced file, specific to a printer and a profile: it can't be reused on another machine.
Should you keep every version of a model?
Keep at least the source version and the latest validated version, clearly identified. The in-between ones can be archived. What matters is knowing which one to print without having to open it.
How do you avoid confusing two similar versions?
By dating or numbering them, and above all by attaching a photo of the printed result to the correct version. A visual preview clears up doubt far faster than a filename.
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