Articles on: Cloud Slicer

How the Cloud Slicer handles 3MF files, SPS projects, and profile data

How the Cloud Slicer handles 3MF files, SPS projects, and profile data

3MF and SPS files can contain more than simple model geometry. This article explains what the Cloud Slicer can use from those files and when you should use the original slicer instead.


Model files, G-code files, and project files

The Cloud Slicer can receive different kinds of files:


  • Model files, such as STL, OBJ, STEP, STP, SVG, and many 3MF files
  • Sliced output files, such as G-code or a 3MF that contains G-code
  • SPS project files saved by the SimplyPrint slicer


These file types behave differently. A model file can be arranged and sliced. A G-code file is already sliced. An SPS file is meant to restore a SimplyPrint slicer project.


3MF files

A 3MF file may contain simple model geometry or a fuller slicer project.


The Cloud Slicer has a dedicated 3MF import path. Depending on what the file contains and whether the parser can read it, SimplyPrint may import model geometry and some project-like data such as placement, plates, paint data, volume types, extruder assignments, object settings, height ranges, and wipe tower position.


3MF support is still best effort. Different slicers write 3MF projects differently, and not every setting or project detail is guaranteed to transfer.


3MF files that contain G-code

Some 3MF files already contain sliced G-code.


When SimplyPrint detects G-code inside a 3MF, it can treat the file as already sliced and open it for G-code preview instead of importing it as editable model geometry.


SPS project files

SPS files are SimplyPrint slicer project files.


Use SPS when you want to save and reopen a Cloud Slicer project. The SPS project format stores SimplyPrint slicer metadata and project state. The current implementation supports project metadata versions for legacy single-plate projects and newer multi-plate projects.


Profile data in project files

SPS files are the safest option when you want to continue working on a project in the SimplyPrint Cloud Slicer.


3MF profile data is less predictable. A 3MF project from another slicer may include profile settings, but the Cloud Slicer may not import every setting exactly as the source slicer used it.


Before slicing, always check:


  • Selected slicer engine
  • Machine profile
  • Nozzle size or machine variant
  • Bed type
  • Print profile
  • Filament profile
  • Object placement
  • Multi-material assignments


When to use the original slicer

Use the slicer that created the 3MF if the project depends on exact profile settings, plate layout, modifiers, painted regions, or other project-specific data.


After slicing in the original slicer, you can upload the resulting G-code to SimplyPrint or use a SimplyPrint integration where available.


If a 3MF imports differently than expected

Try these fixes:


  1. Re-export the model from the original slicer or CAD tool.
  2. Export as STL or another simple model format if you only need the geometry.
  3. Save a SimplyPrint SPS project if you want to reopen the project in SimplyPrint later.
  4. Check all profiles and assignments before slicing.
  5. Slice in the original slicer if the 3MF project depends on exact project data.



Updated on: 26/05/2026

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