File extension .IGES
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Initial Graphics Exchange Specification Format | N/A | 3D Image Files |
The IGES ( .igs) file extension is a CAD file used for parametric, interoperable 3D modeling and data exchange. It stands for Initial Graphics Exchange Specification and was developed by the United States Air Force to define a common format that can be imported and exported into major CAD systems, including Autodesk AutoCAD, Solidworks, Creo, and Catia. An IGES file contains structured
formatted data containing two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometries, which represent a physical structure. It includes measurements, such as properties, dimensions, coordinate values, and boundary information, to accurately describe the shape of an object.
IGES File Mechanics
An IGES file is made up of ordered pieces of data that can identify the structure of the model, color information, language information text string properties. Each piece of data is formed into what’s called an Entity, which is an “instance” of a particular component of the model. Entities are grouped together to create Sections (or directories), which contain collections of different entities associated with the model. The sections are stored in the Global Section of the IGES file.
IGES files have several related file extensions, including .iges, .igs, iges_2 and igs_3. They are created using standard ASCII text editors or program editors such as WordPad or Notepad.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .IGES) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .IGES extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .IGES file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .IGES extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .IGES extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .IGES file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .IGES file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .IGES file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .IGES file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .IGES file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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