3D Viewer & STEP/STL Export
Interactive 3D visualization of heat exchangers with orbit controls, section views, and export to STEP and STL formats for CAD integration.
1. Overview
The 3D Viewer renders a parametric model of the heat exchanger based on your calculation inputs. Built with Three.js, it provides real-time interactive visualization with orbit controls for rotation, zoom, and pan. The model includes tubes with U-bends (half-torus geometry), fins, casing, and headers — all generated procedurally from the coil geometry parameters.
2. Controls
| Action | Mouse | Touch |
|---|---|---|
| Rotate | Left click + drag | One finger drag |
| Zoom | Scroll wheel | Pinch |
| Pan | Right click + drag | Two finger drag |
| Reset View | Double click | Double tap |
3. Component Visibility
Toggle individual components on/off to inspect specific parts of the heat exchanger:
- Tubes: Copper/aluminum tubes with U-bend connections
- Fins: Fin pack with correct spacing (FPI)
- Casing: Sheet metal enclosure around the coil
- Headers: Supply and return headers with connections
4. Thermal Gradient Visualization
When calculation results are available, the 3D viewer can display a thermal gradient on the tube surfaces, showing how temperature varies along the refrigerant/fluid flow path. Blue represents cold regions and red represents hot regions.
5. Export Formats
| Format | Use Case | Plan Required |
|---|---|---|
| STL | 3D printing, mesh-based CAD | Professional |
| STEP | SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, NX | Enterprise |
STEP files preserve solid geometry and can be imported into any major CAD software for further engineering work, BIM integration, or manufacturing preparation.