Artcam File Converter < LATEST >
| Extension | Description | Compatibility |
|-----------|-------------|----------------|
| .art | Native binary project file (2D vectors + 3D relief + toolpaths) | ArtCAM only |
| .rlx | Relief model file (3D heightmap) | ArtCAM, some third-party via conversion |
| .3d (ArtCAM variant) | 3D model export (not to be confused with generic .3d) | Limited |
| .v3d | VectorArt 3D relief format | ArtCAM, Aspire, VCarve |
These formats are not directly readable by modern CAM software without conversion.
If you want, I can:
ArtCAM was a popular software for artistic CAD/CAM design, but since it was discontinued by Autodesk in 2018, finding a standalone "ArtCAM file converter" can be tricky. Most conversions are handled either within the software itself (if you still have access) or through its spiritual successor, Carveco. 1. Converting ArtCAM Models (.art / .rlf)
ArtCAM uses proprietary formats like .art (full models) and .rlf (reliefs). There is no universal "online converter" for these; you generally need a CAM program to open and export them.
Exporting to STL: If you have ArtCAM installed, you can convert your 3D relief into a triangular mesh and save it as an STL for 3D printing or use in other CAD software.
The Carveco Path: Carveco was built on the original ArtCAM codebase and is designed to open and work with legacy ArtCAM files seamlessly. 2. Importing Files into ArtCAM
If your goal is to get other files into ArtCAM, the software acts as its own converter for various formats:
3D Models: You can import STL, OBJ, 3DS, and 3D DXF files, which ArtCAM then converts into its internal relief format.
2D Vectors: Standard vector formats like .dxf, .dwg, .eps, and .ai can be imported to create toolpaths. 3. Converting to G-Code (Post-Processing)
For CNC machining, you don't "convert" the file in the traditional sense; you post-process it.
ArtCAM converts your design into G-code (typically .tap, .nc, or .txt) using a "Post Processor" specific to your CNC machine. Summary of Common Conversions ArtCAM (.art) STL / OBJ Export via ArtCAM/Carveco "Create Mesh" tool. Relief (.rlf) STL Load into ArtCAM model, then export as mesh. ArtCAM (.art) G-Code Use the "Save Toolpaths" option with a Post Processor. Vector (DXF/AI) ArtCAM (.art) Use the "Import Vector" command.
Important Note on Security: Be cautious of websites claiming to be "Free Online ArtCAM Converters." Because .art and .rlf are niche proprietary formats, these sites are often unreliable or potentially unsafe. It is always safer to use official software like Carveco or an older licensed version of ArtCAM.
Do you have a specific file extension you are trying to convert, or Import a 3D file or STL into ArtCAM - Autodesk
Converting files to and from ArtCAM (now Carveco) often involves moving between proprietary formats like .art and .rlf and standard CNC formats like .dxf or .stl. Because ArtCAM was discontinued by Autodesk in 2018, many users rely on the software itself or specialized third-party tools for these conversions. Common File Conversions for ArtCAM
ArtCAM (.art) to AutoCAD (.dxf): To export a drawing as a vector, select the drawing in ArtCAM, go to the Vector menu, choose Save, and select AutoCAD DXF as the file type.
ArtCAM (.rlf) to 3D Model (.stl): In ArtCAM 2018 and later, you can convert a 3D relief by clicking "Create" in the 3D model panel and then saving the result as an STL file.
Importing 3D Files (STL/OBJ): You can bring external 3D models into ArtCAM by navigating to Relief > Import > Import 3D Model. Software & Third-Party Converters
If you do not have a working version of ArtCAM, you can use these alternatives: How to import STL file into Artcam
To help you with an ArtCAM file converter , I need to know if you are looking to files into ArtCAM, them for other software, or artcam file converter
to a new platform since Autodesk discontinued ArtCAM in 2018.
Depending on your goal, here are the most common conversion methods: 1. Converting Into ArtCAM (Importing)
If you have designs from other software, ArtCAM supports several formats that it converts into its native relief or vector workspace: 3D Models to Reliefs : You can import STL, OBJ, 3DS, and 3D DXF
files. When imported, ArtCAM converts these meshes into a 3D relief for carving. 2D Vectors Vector > Import menu to bring in third-party files like AI, EPS, or DWG Images to 3D : You can drag and drop a JPEG or PNG
directly into ArtCAM to generate a heightmap relief based on the image's grayscale values. 2. Converting Out of ArtCAM (Exporting)
If you need to move an ArtCAM model to a 3D printer or another CAM program: ArtCAM to STL
: Select your 3D relief, create a mesh (triangular mesh), and use the dialog to export it as an ArtCAM to Toolpaths : Most users "convert" their ArtCAM designs into G-code (.tap, .nc, .txt) Save Toolpaths
menu, selecting the specific post-processor for their CNC machine. 3. Modern Alternatives
Since ArtCAM is no longer officially supported, many users "convert" their workflow to newer software that can open legacy ArtCAM files or provide similar tools:
: Founded by the original ArtCAM development team; it is essentially the direct successor and can open native
: A specialized alternative for artistic CNC engraving and design. Vectric VCarve/Aspire
Because "ArtCAM file converter" often refers to the built-in capabilities of the
software (now discontinued by Autodesk but widely used in its 2018 version) rather than a standalone third-party app, this review focuses on how the software handles file transitions for CNC and 3D modeling projects. ArtCAM File Conversion: Performance Review
ArtCAM remains a staple for woodworkers and jewelers because of its robust ability to bridge the gap between 2D artistic sketches and 3D CNC machining. Rather than using an external converter, most users rely on ArtCAM’s internal "Import" and "Save As" functions to move between formats like Pros: Versatility and Precision Broad Format Support
: ArtCAM 2018 is highly effective at importing diverse file types, including meshes like STL, OBJ, and 3D DXF
. This allows users to bring in complex models from other software and position them on the zero plane with high precision. Direct STL Export
: For those moving from relief carving to 3D printing or further CAD refinement, the software can convert native 3D models into triangular meshes and save them as with just a few clicks. Artistic-to-Technical Bridge : It excels at turning 2D vector art into 3D relief files (
), which is its primary strength compared to standard engineering CAD. Cons: The "Legacy" Barrier Discontinued Support
: Since Autodesk discontinued ArtCAM, there are no official updates. This means newer file versions from modern CAD software may require a middle-man converter (like Adobe Acrobat If you want, I can:
for PDFs or specialized vector converters) before ArtCAM can read them. Steep Learning Curve : Unlike simple online converters such as
, ArtCAM’s conversion process requires manual alignment and mesh "pasting," which can be intimidating for beginners. Which Tool to Use? Recommended Tool/Method Import 3D Models Use ArtCAM’s Relief > Import 3D Model menu for STL or OBJ files. Export for 3D Printing Create Mesh feature within ArtCAM to save as an STL. Convert 2D Vectors Adobe Express
or standard vector tools to ensure compatibility before importing into ArtCAM. Security Note
Avoid "free" online ArtCAM-specific converters found on obscure sites; they often carry risks of malware or data theft. The Verdict
: If you already own ArtCAM, its internal conversion tools are excellent for CNC-specific tasks. However, for users without the software looking to "view" or "convert" an file, you may need to look for ArtCAM Relief (RLF) viewers
or specialized CNC utility software, as standard file converters rarely support these proprietary formats. into ArtCAM, or are you looking for a stand-alone alternative to the software?
What is ArtCam?
ArtCam is a software used for creating 3D models and machining them on CNC machines. It is developed by Artios CAD and is widely used in various industries such as woodworking, stone carving, and metalworking.
What is an ArtCam file?
ArtCam files are proprietary files created by ArtCam software. These files have a .art or .atk extension and contain 3D model data, toolpaths, and other project settings.
Why do we need an ArtCam file converter?
There are several reasons why you might need to convert ArtCam files to other formats:
Available ArtCam file converters
There are several ArtCam file converters available, both free and paid. Here are a few:
Conversion formats
ArtCam file converters can convert files to various formats, including:
Step-by-step conversion process
Here's a general step-by-step guide on how to convert ArtCam files using a converter:
Common issues and limitations
When converting ArtCam files, you may encounter some common issues, such as:
By understanding ArtCam file converters and the conversion process, you can share and use ArtCam files more efficiently, and work with other software and machines that may not support ArtCam files directly.
Once you have a converter, which format should you choose?
Pro tip: Always save two copies after conversion. Save the STL for machining, and save a high-resolution PNG depth map of the relief. You can re-import the PNG into almost any CAM software (like Vectric's "Create from Image") as a backup.
An ArtCAM file converter is not a simple single utility but a process involving legacy software, commercial alternatives (Carveco, Vectric), or manual reconstruction. The most reliable method is using the original ArtCAM or Carveco to export to open formats like STL or DXF. Users must accept that toolpaths and parametric data are not convertible – only the 3D geometry and 2D vectors. For ongoing production, migrating to Carveco or Aspire is strongly advised.
Because ArtCAM is discontinued, no "official" converter exists from Autodesk. However, the market has responded with several robust solutions.
Let's walk through the most common conversion scenario using ArtCAM Explorer (free).
Step 1: Download ArtCAM Explorer
Search archive.org or CNC forums for the final release (2018). Install it on a Windows PC. (Note: It does not require a license).
Step 2: Open your .art file
Launch Explorer. Go to File > Open and select your legacy .art file. The 3D relief will render.
Step 3: Verify the Model
Rotate and zoom. Check for errors like flipped normals or missing layers that might have been corrupted.
Step 4: Export as STL (Stereolithography)
Step 5: Import to your new CAM
Open Vectric, Fusion 360, or Carveco. Use Import > 3D Model > STL. You now have a mesh. In Aspire or Carveco, you can convert that mesh back into a "component" to edit it.
Do you have 5,000 ArtCAM files from the last ten years? Manually opening each one is not feasible.
While consumer batch converters do not exist, you can leverage command line utilities hidden inside professional software.
Using Vectric's Gadgets API:
Advanced users can write a Lua script (Vectric's Gadget system) that loops through a folder, opens each .art file, and exports the relief as an STL. This is developer-level work, but for a production shop, it pays for itself in a week.
Alternative Batch Strategy:
If you are a shop closing its ArtCAM license, you likely have a library of 1,000+ .art files.
The problem: ArtCAM Explorer only opens one file at a time.
The solution: Use a scripting bridge. While no native batch tool exists, you can use a macro recorder (like AutoHotkey) to automate Explorer:
Commercial alternative: Some custom CNC service bureaus offer "ArtCAM batch conversion services" for a flat fee (approx. $0.50–$2.00 per file). For large archives, this is worth the cost. ArtCAM was a popular software for artistic CAD/CAM
