Standard for the Exchange of Product model data (ISO 10303)
Import STEP files into your digital twin
STEP is the file you get when you ask a machine builder for a 3D model. Upload it to Moicon and it becomes an asset in the digital twin of your factory.
- File extensions
- .step, .stp
- Developed by
- ISO (ISO 10303)
- Category
- Neutral interchange
- Geometry
- Precise B-rep solids and surfaces
- Typical software
- SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, Siemens NX, Creo, Fusion 360
- Import pipeline
- Autodesk Platform Services translation
What is a STEP file?
STEP is the ISO 10303 standard for exchanging product data between CAD systems. It stores exact boundary representation (B-rep) geometry rather than a mesh approximation, along with assembly structure, part names, and units. Because it is vendor neutral and loses very little in translation, it has become the default way to move solid models between companies that run different CAD tools.
The standard is organized into application protocols. AP203 and AP214 cover mechanical design and are what most CAD packages write by default; AP242 is the newer protocol that merges both and adds support for things like product manufacturing information. For plain geometry exchange, any of them will carry your model faithfully.
Where these files come from
Equipment vendors, machine builders, and component suppliers almost always deliver 3D models as STEP, because it opens in whatever CAD system the receiver happens to run. If your team collects machine models for layout planning, most of that folder is probably .step and .stp files.
How to import STEP files into Moicon
As simple as four steps, from file to factory floor.
Step 1
Upload your model
In the Moicon dashboard, select Add asset and drag and drop your .step or .stp file.
Step 2
Let it process
Moicon translates STEP files through Autodesk Platform Services, the service behind its support for more than 70 formats. Translation time depends on the size and complexity of the model and the current service load.
Step 3
Name and organize it
Give the asset a name, add a thumbnail so it is easy to spot, and file it under the categories your team uses in the asset library.
Step 4
Place it in your project
Open your project and drop the asset into the viewport. From there you can position, clone, and scale it like any other asset in your twin.
STEP FAQ
What is the difference between .step and .stp?
Nothing. They are the same format with two spellings of the extension. Older systems shortened extensions to three letters, which is where .stp comes from.
Does Moicon import STEP files?
Yes. When you upload a STEP file, Moicon translates it through Autodesk Platform Services, the same service behind Moicon's support for more than 70 file formats. Translation time depends on the size and complexity of the model.
Which STEP application protocol should I export?
For geometry exchange it rarely matters. AP214 is the most common default, and AP242 is its modern successor. If your CAD tool asks, either is a safe choice.
Is STEP better than IGES for sharing models?
Usually, yes. STEP is the newer standard and carries solids and assembly structure, while IGES in practice arrives as surfaces and wireframe. If the sender can export both, ask for STEP.