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Home Glossary X_b file

X_B File Format

The X_B file format is a 3D file format associated with the Parasolid geometric modeling kernel, used to store and exchange precise 3D solid and surface data.

X_B files contain the same type of exact geometric information as X_T files but are stored in a binary format, making them more compact and faster to process in performance-critical CAD workflows.


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X_T Parasolid CAD File Format
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Technical Explanation

X_B files are commonly referred to as Parasolid binary transmit files. They store exact Parasolid-based B-Rep geometry, including solids, surfaces, and assemblies, while preserving topological relationships between faces, edges, and vertices.

Unlike X_T, which is text-based and human-readable at a structural level, X_B is binary. This results in:

  • Smaller file sizes compared to X_T
  • Faster read and write performance
  • Improved efficiency for large or complex models

X_B files focus exclusively on 3D geometry exchange. They do not include:

  • Feature history or parametric constraints
  • 2D drafting entities such as lines or arcs

Because of their binary nature, X_B files cannot be meaningfully inspected with standard text editors and require Parasolid-enabled software or a dedicated interoperability toolkit to interpret their contents.

Applications and Industry Use Cases

X_B files are commonly used in environments where performance and scalability are critical:

  • High-performance CAD applications exchanging large or complex models
  • Manufacturing and CAM workflows requiring fast geometry transfer
  • CAE and simulation pipelines that consume exact surface and solid data
  • Enterprise and PLM systems handling large volumes of CAD data

For many industrial workflows, X_B is preferred over X_T due to its efficiency and reduced storage footprint.

Challenges or Common Pitfalls

While X_B files are efficient and precise, certain limitations apply:

  • Binary content makes manual inspection or debugging impossible
  • Compatibility depends on the Parasolid version supported by the receiving system
  • Feature history and design intent are not preserved
  • 2D drafting data is not supported
  • Reliable translation and validation tools are required to ensure consistent data exchange across different CAD environments

How Spatial Helps

Spatial’s 3D InterOp SDK provides robust support for X_B file import and export, enabling reliable translation between Parasolid-based formats and other major CAD kernels.

3D InterOp preserves exact geometry, topology, colors, and metadata while applying advanced healing and validation to ensure clean, usable models.

Whether integrating X_B data into Parasolid-based applications or non-Parasolid environments (such as ACIS or CGM-based systems), Spatial enables seamless multi-CAD interoperability without compromising performance or precision.

Discover how 3D InterOp handles X_B files efficiently

Explore 3D InterOp

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