What is the STEP file format and how can it be opened?

The STEP file is one of the most common formats for exchanging 3D model data between CAD-like programs. STEP is an acronym for "STandard for the Exchange of the Product model data". This format is defined by ISO - International Standards Organization under the number 10303.

However, STEP files may have other names besides ISO 10303:

• STP file;
  
• P21 file;
  
• STEP physical file.
  

STEP files have a modular structure, each module is called a "class". These classes all represent standards, implementation architectures, conformance test procedures, resource information models, and application protocols. This means that a STEP file represents more than just a geometry file.

History of the emergence of STEP

ISO has a Technical Committee 184 on Automation and Integration Systems. It was formed in the mid-1980s to develop the STEP format, which facilitates file exchange between programs and provides a standardized approach to working with 3D models and projects.

In '88, ISO received the basis for STEP. The first edition was published in '94. Since then, 2 more editions have been released: the second in 2002 and the third in 2016.

Due to the high cross-platform compatibility and the accuracy of the transfer of details and the body of the 3D model, the STEP format is still a quite digestible option for use.

What programs can I use to open STEP?

The process of loading or creating a solid/frame/surface STEP model is possible in most CAD systems of varying levels of sophistication.

However, the most common are the following applications:

• Autodesk Fusion 360;
  
• Dassault Systemes SolidWorks;
  
• IMSI TurboCAD Pro;
  
• ideaMK STP Viewer;
  
• Dassault Systemes CATIA;
  
• Siemens Solid Edge;
  
• Open Cascade DMU Reviewer;
  
• Free Trial;
  
• LKSoft IDA-STEP;
  
• FreeCAD;
  
• CADSoftTools ABViewer;
  
• CADSoftTools CST CAD Navigator;
  
• Kubotek KeyCreator;
  
• Okino Computer Graphics PolyTrans;
  
• McNeel Rhino.
  

Each of the above CAD systems has its own unique set of CAD methods and tools. They will all be able to open a STEP file for visual representation of the model, but editing of individual design elements will only be supported by the CAD in which the model was created.

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