Convert SLDASM to IGS

A supplier, CAM or inspection system, or legacy CAD package may require IGES instead of a native SOLIDWORKS assembly. Exporting provides neutral geometry for import into systems that cannot open the original project.

SLDASM and IGS formats

.sldasm is the native assembly format used by SOLIDWORKS. It records component references, positions, mates, configurations, display information, and assembly-level features; the actual component geometry is normally stored in referenced .sldprt files and subassembly .sldasm files.

An assembly file by itself is usually not enough to export. Missing part or subassembly references produce unresolved components, so obtain the complete project folder or a SOLIDWORKS File → Pack and Go package.

.igs and .iges are extensions for IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification). IGES can transfer wireframe, surface, trimmed-surface, and solid B-rep geometry and remains common in older tooling, CAM, metrology, and aerospace workflows.

IGES does not retain SOLIDWORKS parametric features, mates, configurations, equations, motion data, or editable assembly relationships. For current CAD exchange, STEP AP242 is usually more dependable for solid models and product structure; use IGES when the recipient specifically requires it or has demonstrated better IGES support.

Exporting from SOLIDWORKS

1. Put the assembly, all part files, subassemblies, and external references in accessible locations. For supplied data, extract the complete Pack and Go package before opening the top-level .sldasm file.
2. Open the assembly in SOLIDWORKS and resolve every missing-reference prompt. Select the required configuration, then rebuild with Ctrl + Q. Check the FeatureManager tree for suppressed or unresolved components that must be included.
3. Confirm units, component placement, and geometry before export. Repair failed features or missing bodies in the native model rather than expecting IGES export to correct them.
4. Choose File → Save As, select IGES (*.igs; *.iges), specify a name such as assembly.igs, and open Options.
5. Select the available IGES options required by the receiving system, particularly the solid or surface export setting. Export solid geometry when the target can read IGES solids; use surfaces only when requested or when the target cannot import the solid result.
6. Save the file and test it in the receiving application. If possible, also re-open the IGES file in SOLIDWORKS and compare body count, component positions, units, and solid-body recognition.

Alternative conversion tools

CAD Exchanger can translate supported SOLIDWORKS assemblies to IGES when SOLIDWORKS is unavailable. Load the top-level assembly with all referenced files available, inspect the resolved assembly tree, then export as IGES. Confirm that the installed edition supports both the source SOLIDWORKS version and IGES export before using it for production data.

CrossManager is another desktop translator that may support SOLIDWORKS-to-IGES conversion depending on its installed import modules and licensing. Verify native SOLIDWORKS assembly support rather than assuming that every CrossManager edition reads .sldasm files.

For occasional jobs, CAD Exchanger Cloud is a reputable online option, but upload only non-confidential data and only after confirming support for the specific SOLIDWORKS version. Upload the complete dependency set if the service accepts it; an assembly file without its referenced parts cannot produce a complete result. Review the downloaded IGES model before sending it onward.

Compatibility checks

IGES importers vary substantially. A receiving program may load the export as separate bodies, a single compound model, or unstructured surfaces; names, colors, layers, and component hierarchy may not survive.

Check for missing faces, open surface gaps, failed trims, incorrect units, and bodies imported as surfaces. Do not delete the original SOLIDWORKS project after export: an IGES file is a geometric exchange copy and cannot recreate native design intent or assembly behavior.