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Home Glossary What is an xmt_bin file

XMT_TXT File Format

The XMT_BIN file format is a Parasolid-based binary file format used to exchange exact 3D geometry together with full assembly structure.

It is the binary equivalent of XMT_TXT, designed to efficiently represent complex products composed of multiple parts while reducing file size and improving performance.


Want to learn about other file formats ? 

Parasolid X_T X_B
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Technical Explanation

XMT_BIN is a binary Parasolid transmit format that extends standard Parasolid geometry exchange to include assembly-level information.

Unlike X_T or X_B, which are primarily focused on individual parts or geometry transfer, XMT_BIN is specifically intended for complete product structures.

An XMT_BIN file typically contains:

  • Exact Parasolid B-Rep geometry for solids and surfaces

  • Assembly hierarchy, including part relationships and structure

  • Transformation and positioning data for components within assemblies

  • Attributes and metadata required to reconstruct the full product context

Because XMT_BIN is binary, it offers:

  • Smaller file sizes compared to XMT_TXT

  • Faster read/write performance

  • Improved scalability for large assemblies

Like other Parasolid exchange formats, XMT_BIN does not preserve feature history, parametric constraints, or 2D drafting entities, focusing instead on precise 3D geometry and structure exchange.

Applications and Industry Use Cases

XMT_BIN is commonly used in workflows where performance and assembly fidelity are critical:

  • Enterprise CAD and PLM systems exchanging large product structures

  • Multi-CAD collaboration involving full assemblies across platforms

  • Manufacturing and CAM workflows requiring accurate part positioning

  • CAE and digital mockup applications working with complex assemblies

For large-scale industrial models, XMT_BIN is often preferred over text-based formats due to its efficiency and robustness.

Challenges or Common Pitfalls

While XMT_BIN is optimized for performance, several considerations apply:

  • Binary content prevents manual inspection or debugging

  • Compatibility depends on the Parasolid version supported by the target system

  • Feature history and design intent are not retained

  • Limited support in lightweight viewers compared to part-level formats

Reliable interoperability tools are required to ensure consistent reconstruction of both geometry and assembly structure.

How Spatial Helps

Spatial’s 3D InterOp SDK provides full support for XMT_BIN import and export, enabling reliable translation of Parasolid assemblies across CAD systems.

3D InterOp preserves exact geometry, assembly hierarchy, positioning, and metadata, while applying advanced validation and healing to ensure clean and consistent results.

Whether importing XMT_BIN data into Parasolid-based applications or translating it into non-Parasolid environments such as ACIS or CGM based systems, Spatial enables seamless assembly-level interoperability across complex multi-CAD workflows.

Discover how Spatial handles XMT_BIN files efficiently

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