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But what happens when you need to open or view an SLDPRT file and don’t have immediate access to SolidWorks? Thankfully, there are effective ways to upload, open, view, and share SLDPRT files using alternative tools.
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This post will guide you through three popular methods for working with SLDPRT files, highlighting their pros and cons, and comparing them to other file types in your engineering toolkit. Whether you need to view a design, annotate it, or share it with colleagues, this breakdown has you covered.

Method 1: Using a Dedicated SLDPRT Viewer

One of the easiest ways to open an SLDPRT file is by using a dedicated viewer. These viewers are typically lightweight and specialized for reading SolidWorksfile types like SLDPRT, SLDDRW, and SLDASM.

How it Works

Download a free or paid SLDPRT viewer like eDrawings Viewer or FreeCAD.
Install the software on your computer.
Open the SLDPRT file directly within the application.

Pros

Ease of Use: These tools are simple and intuitive, requiring minimal technical expertise.
Support for Annotations: Viewers like eDrawings allow for measurements, annotations, and even markups on the file.
File Compatibility: Apart from SLDPRT, many viewers also support related file types like STEP and IGES.

Cons

Limited Editing: These tools are strictly for viewing; you won’t be able to modify the design.
Viewing Options May be Limited: Auxiliary views such as exploded or sections views may be unavailable.
Material Types May Not be Displayed: The type of material listed in the part may not transfer.

Best For

Quick and easy viewing of SLDPRT files in professional environments.

Method 2: Using CAD Platforms with Import Functionality

Many CAD programs support importing and viewing SLDPRT files, even if they aren’t native SolidWorks users.

How it Works

Use software like AutoCAD, Fusion 360, or Onshape.
Import the SLDPRT file using the respective “Open” or “Import” features.
View and analyze the file in a CAD interface.

Pros

Advanced Functionality: Many CAD platforms offer in-depth tools for analyzing and manipulating the file's geometry.
Cross-Compatibility: Easily integrate the file into other design workflows.
Cloud Accessibility (with tools like Fusion 360): Work remotely and share files effortlessly.

Cons

Resource-Intensive: These platforms may require substantial computing power to run smoothly.
Learning Curve: The more advanced the software, the steeper the learning curve for beginners.
Non-native Integration: The native file tree may not transfer to these systems.
Cost: These softwares may carry significant costs

Best For

Engineers looking to integrate SLDPRT files into more complex design and modeling workflows.

Method 3: Converting SLDPRT Files to Universal Formats

If you lack the necessary software to open SLDPRT files directly, you can convert them into more universally accepted file formats like STEP, IGES, or STL.

How it Works

Use a file conversion tool like FreeCAD or online converters like CloudConvert.
Upload your SLDPRT file and choose the desired output format.
Download the converted file and open it using a compatible program.

Pros

Accessibility: Converted files are easier to share with collaborators who might not have a specialized viewer.
Broad Compatibility: Universal formats work with a wide range of CAD and 3D visualization tools.
No Dedicated Software Needed: Many converters are web-based, removing the need for installation.

Cons

Potential Data Loss: Some features in the original file might not translate perfectly during conversion.
Dependence on Third-Party Tools: Using online converters may pose security concerns for sensitive designs.

Best For

Sharing SLDPRT files with collaborators who use different systems.

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Pros and Cons Table for Each Method

Method	Pros	Cons
SLDPRT Viewer	Easy to use, supports annotations, and compatible with multiple file types.	Limited editing/viewing capabilities and requires installations.
CAD Platforms	Resource-heavy and may require significant expertise.	Also carry costs.
File Conversion	Allows for universal access and doesn’t require file-specific software.	Conversion can lead to feature loss and may require reliance on less secure third-party tools.

SLDPRT Files Compared to Other File Types

SLDPRT files stand out for their ability to store intricate details of 3D part models, but it's important to understand how they differ from other common file types used in engineering:

STEP: Widely recognized and preferred for inter-application sharing, but lacks specific SolidWorksSOLIDWORKSSolidWorks features like native sketches and constraints.sketches. native sketches and constraints.
IGES: Useful for older systems but can occasionally lead to compatibility issues with advanced 3D models.
STL: Ideal for 3D printing; however, it only contains surface geometry and no CAD features.

While SLDPRT files provide significant advantages for SolidWorks users, converting these files when cross-platform collaboration is required ensures broader accessibility.

Quickly find answers to common questions in our FAQ section

What software can open SLDPRT files without SolidWorks?

Programs like eDrawings Viewer, FreeCAD, and Fusion 360 can open SLDPRT files without requiring SolidWorks, but will not transfer native features.

Can SLDPRT files be opened online?

Yes, online tools like ShareCAD and A360 allow users to open SLDPRT files directly from their browser.

How do I share SLDPRT files with colleagues?

You can share them via email, cloud platforms, or by converting the files to a universal format such as STEP or IGES.

Is it possible to annotate SLDPRT files?

Yes, tools like eDrawings Viewer and Fusion 360 support annotations directly on SLDPRT files.

Can I view SLDPRT files on mobile devices?

Yes, mobile CAD applications like CAD Assistant or the Fusion 360 app can open and view SLDPRT files on smartphones or tablets. Onshape can also run completely on a mobile device.

Are SLDPRT files editable in non-SOLIDWORKS software?

Editing can be done to solids but design trees are not maintained.You may need SolidWorks for full editing capabilities.

Can SLDPRT files be converted to STL for 3D printing?

Yes, software like FreeCAD or dedicated converters can export SLDPRT to STL

Do SLDPRT files support assembly features?

No, assembly features require the SLDASM file type, not SLDPRT. Multi-body designing is possible with SLDPRT, however.

Is cloud storage safe for SLDPRT files?

Storing SLDPRT files in secure cloud systems like Dropbox or Google Drive is generally safe, provided encryption and access controls are utilized.

Simplify Your SLDPRT Workflow

Managing SLDPRT files doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re viewing, sharing, or converting these files, the methods above offer reliable solutions tailored to your needs. By selecting the right tools, you can focus more on design and less on logistics.