# How to see an exploded view of a 3D model

Source: https://0xr.space/m/how/see-an-exploded-view-of-a-3d-model  
Published 2026-10-10, updated 2026-10-20, by ZeroXR, the maker of Model Explorer (https://0xr.space/).

Open the model on 0xr.space, press More in the dock, then Explode, and choose X, Y or Z. The parts move apart along that axis so each one can be seen on its own; Off puts them back. Click, tap or pinch a part to select it. With hand tracking on a headset you can also draw a loop round a part to select it, and a double pinch on the model turns explore mode on or off, in which each part can be pinched on its own.

Explode only appears when the model has at least two parts, so a single-mesh STL or a scan has nothing to pull apart. The parts are the file's own: a STEP keeps its bodies, while an IFC building is merged by colour and comes apart in colour groups, not walls and doors. Animation stops while the model is exploded, and Explode is greyed out while you place the model.

## Steps

1. Open 0xr.space and open the model.
2. Press More, then Explode, and choose X, Y or Z.
3. Select a part by clicking or tapping it. In VR, pinch it, or draw a loop round it with your hand; a loop that misses says why, such as No part enclosed or Close the loop to select.
4. Choose Off to put the parts back together.

## Questions

### Why is there no Explode in the menu?

The model has only one part. Explode is hidden for a single mesh, which is how most STL files and scans arrive.

### Does an IFC explode by storey?

No. Element and storey data are not kept, and the geometry is grouped by colour, so it separates into colour groups.

### Can I move one part on its own?

In VR, yes: a double pinch on the model turns on explore mode, and each part can then be pinched by itself.

### Is my file uploaded?

No. It is read on the device, and nothing is sent to a server unless you create a share link yourself.

## Related guides

- [How to view a 3D model as wireframe or with a UV checker](https://0xr.space/m/how/view-3d-model-as-wireframe-or-uv-checker)
- [How to count the polygons, materials and textures of a 3D model](https://0xr.space/m/how/count-polygons-materials-and-textures-of-a-3d-model)
- [How to check if a mesh is watertight](https://0xr.space/m/how/check-if-a-mesh-is-watertight)
- [How to measure a 3D model in the browser or in VR](https://0xr.space/m/how/measure-a-3d-model-in-the-browser-or-vr)
- [How to view a 3D model at real size](https://0xr.space/m/how/view-a-3d-model-at-real-size-1-to-1)
- [How to check a 3D print's real size before printing it](https://0xr.space/m/how/check-3d-print-size-before-printing)