All About the AMF File Format for 3D Printing

AMF files are important because they contain information about color, texture, and other non-geometrical attributes of objects — something that is not possible with STL files. As a result, AMF files are a little more complicated, but they are better suited for use in professional settings. Another important point is that the tessellated triangles in AMF files have the ability to curve and follow the model's geometry. Because of this ability, models are represented more accurately. AMF files can therefore contain an equivalent or greater volume of data while being smaller than STL files and significantly smaller than OBJ files.

What Are the Types of AMF Files?

Though the AMF file format discussed in this article is used for additive manufacturing, there are three other file types that use the .amf file extension. These should not be confused with one another, as they are used for very different purposes. The different AMF file types are:

1. Additive Manufacturing File
2. Asylum Music Format Audio File
3. Advanced Module File

What Are the Best AMF File Converters?

The best AMF file converters are: 

1. SolidWorks®: When you export part or assembly documents from SolidWorks®, you can configure the export options as STL (.stl) or AMF (.amf) file formats. In other words, it supports STL to AMF conversion. 
2. Autodesk®: Various Autodesk® programs can be used to view and convert AMF files. However, the main Autodesk® application used for AMF files is MeshMixer. Applications like Fusion 360® and Autodesk FeatureCAM® 2023 (MDEU) can also be used. 

SolidWorks® and Autodesk® both were involved in the initial stages of the development of the .amf file, and are considered to be two of the best AMF file converters. 

What Are the Best Applications for AMF Files?

The best CAD applications for AMF files are:

1. MeshMixer: Autodesk®'s MeshMixer is the main application used for .amf file formats. Because Meshmixer is primarily used to make or use AMF files, AMF files are frequently referred to as “Meshmixer CADs.”
2. Cura: Cura, a 3D CAD program, can be used to slice and print 3D models. Using Cura, you may view, modify, and print AMF files. 
3. SolidWorks®: The AMF file format is compatible with Solidworks®. This application can be used to view .amf files or to convert them to other file formats. 

Is an AMF File a CAD File?

Yes, AMF files are CAD files. AMF files can be used by CAD software to describe models for 3D printing. While the AMF file is not the most popular file format for 3D printing, it is a more advanced file format than the well-known STL file. 

What is the Difference Between an AMF and STL File?

Compared to STL, AMF is an improved file format. AMF uses triangular tessellation to store geometric data, just like STL. However, the AMF triangles have the ability to curve, providing a data representation that better conforms to the desired shape. Since fewer mesh triangles are needed to accurately represent curved surfaces as a result, file sizes are also significantly reduced – an AMF file is around half the size of a compressed STL file.

AMF files can also contain metadata and other data like color, texture, material, duplicate, orientation, and lattice. Compared to their STL counterparts, they are significantly more technically advanced.