Is there a solution to make a smaller stl file.

Karl_H

Hi,

I have been following this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prLmfRr9owg&list=PLGNemB0NFb0AwJuFCaPs6jsa-R-DewJLK&index=4

I am using another model that is quite big, 6m in length and 3 meter in width. I have now used the same kind of python code and batch code as the video, when I run it takes quite a while and when the STL file is created it is 10GB. Is there a way to reduce this? I was thinking if there is a way to change the mesh size in the python code? I also tried to import the STL file to EDEM but it is to big, so it takes to long. I Managed to import the stl file to Inspire but it looked like this:

SouravDas0306

Hello Karl,

Yes, the extremely large STL file size you're encountering—around 10GB—is primarily due to a very fine mesh resolution being applied to a large-scale model (6 meters by 3 meters). Since STL files store geometry as a collection of triangles, using a small mesh size dramatically increases the triangle count and, consequently, the file size. This not only slows down STL export but also makes importing into software like EDEM impractical. To reduce the file size, you can adjust the mesh resolution directly in your Python script using the Inspire hwx API by specifying a larger meshSize parameter when calling the convertToTriangleMesh() function. If the function doesn’t explicitly support mesh size, you may need to set a global mesh resolution beforehand. Additionally, you can simplify the STL file post-export using mesh decimation tools such as MeshLab, Blender, or Altair HyperMesh. These tools allow you to reduce the number of triangles while preserving overall geometry, making the file easier to manage in EDEM or Inspire. It's also advisable to remove unnecessary geometric features before meshing, especially small fillets or holes that don’t affect the simulation but contribute to the triangle count. If only a specific region of the model is needed for simulation, consider slicing and exporting just that portion. When STL files appear distorted or overly fragmented upon import into Inspire, it's usually due to excessive triangle density or rendering limitations. A coarser mesh (e.g., 2–10 mm) is often sufficient for EDEM simulations and will greatly reduce file size and loading time.

Regards,

Sourav