Convert IGES Files to PLY

IGES to PLY

IGES to PLY Conversion

This list contains valuable resources, filled with step-by-step instructions and expert tips for converting IGES files to PLY format using our converters. Explore them now to expedite your IGES files conversion later.


IGES vs. PLY Comparison

Property IGES PLY
Extensions .igs, .iges .ply
Name Initial Graphics Exchange Specification Stanford Polygon
Versions
Textures
Colors
Geometry components

IGS Initial Graphics Exchange File

A file format widely used in the fields of CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), as it enables to transfer of 3D models and designs across different platforms and applications. It has the following features:

  • Text Format: IGES uses a text format to store geometry data, which means it can be easily readable and editable. However, this also means that IGES files can become very large when exporting complex shapes or meshes with many faces.
  • Color Support: The IGES format supports color per assembly, enhancing the visual appeal of your 3D designs.
  • Transparency Settings: One limitation of the IGES format is the absence of an alpha component. This means that any transparency settings in your 3D design will be lost when saved in the IGES format.
  • IGES Converters: Autoconverter supports IGES format for reading and writing, however it can only work with triangulated mesh geometry. If you need to preserve smooth IGES surfaces you should use Autoshaper instead.

PLY Polygon File

A file format specifically designed to store three-dimensional triangles along with additional properties such as color, normals, transparency, or texture coordinates. PLY is also known as the Stanford Triangle Format, as it was developed at Stanford University in the early 1990s. PLY has many applications and benefits for 3D graphics, such as:

  • Rich and Customizable Data: PLY is a comprehensive and flexible format for 3D triangles, as it can store not only the geometric information of the triangles, but also the material and appearance information of the vertices and faces. PLY also allows for the definition of custom properties and elements, which can be used to store any additional data that is relevant to the 3D model.
  • PLY File Converter: Autoconverter allows you to convert your 3D models from various file formats, such as STL, SKP, OBJ, DAE, 3DS, STEP, and others, to PLY and vice versa.
  • Binary and ASCII Formats: It’s worth noting that PLY files can be saved in either binary or ASCII text formats. The binary version is generally preferred due to its significant reduction in file size and faster loading speed. However, the ASCII version is more human-readable and easier to edit. Our PLY file converter can handle both formats and convert between them.