Best Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Software with a Free Trial of 2025

SimScale, a web-based cloud application, plays an important role in simulation software for many industries. The platform supports Computational Fluid Dynamics, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), as well as Thermal Simulation. It also provides 3D simulation, continuous modeling, motion & dynamic modelling.

FEATool Multiphysics – "Physics Simulator Made Easy" – a fully integrated physics simulation, FEA and CFD toolbox. FEATool Multiphysics provides a fully integrated simulation platform that includes a unified user interface for several multi-physics solvers such as OpenFOAM and Computational fluid dynamics (CFD), including SU2 Code and FEniCS. This allows users to model coupled physics phenomena, such as those found in fluid flow and heat transfer, structural, electromagnetics acoustics and chemical engineering applications. FEATool multiphysics is a trusted tool for engineers and researchers in the energy, automotive and semi-conductor industries.

Thermal Desktop encompasses every facet of creating models, integrating various built-in objects like finite difference, finite element, and lumped capacitance that can be arranged in numerous ways. Users can incorporate thermal-specific components such as contact conductance, insulation, heat loads, and heaters, enabling the modeling of a wide range of systems from automotive parts to crewed spacecraft. The software features comprehensive parameterization, allowing input through variables and complex expressions instead of fixed numerical values. These variables, known as symbols, facilitate swift adjustments to models with minimal effort, simplifying the process of updating or maintaining them, as well as conducting sensitivity analyses and exploring hypothetical scenarios. Furthermore, this capability enhances access to SINDA/FLUINT’s modules for optimization and reliability, along with automated model correlation, ultimately enriching the modeling experience. By streamlining these processes, Thermal Desktop not only improves efficiency but also fosters innovation in thermal analysis.

The FEA program RFEM enables quick and easy modeling, structural, and dynamic calculation as well as the design and construction of models with member and plate, wall, folded plates, shell, shell, and other solid elements. Modular software allows you to connect the main program RFEM to the appropriate add-ons to meet your specific requirements. Structural analysis program RFEM offers structural engineers a 3D FEA tool that meets all modern civil engineering requirements. Simple and complex structures can be modelled with ease thanks to efficient data input and intuitive handling. The basis of a modular software program is the structural analysis program RFEM. The RFEM basic program is used to create structures, materials, loads, and plans for spatial and planar structural systems that include plates, walls, shells and members. You can also create mixed structures and model contact elements.

SafeGrid Earthing Software is ideal for designing earthing systems. The software can perform accurate, finite element based calculations. SafeGrid Earthing software has been proven to be affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use. The software calculates substation grid resistance, touch and voltages, and lightning protection. The software has been helping industries for the past ten years. It includes all modules necessary to design a safe earthing system in the safe grip. It includes: Fault current distribution. Soil modelling. Grid. Safety criteria Secure results You also get support from our earthing experts engineers along with the software. SafeGrid Earthing software saves time and money on your projects.

SPACE GASS is a versatile 3D analysis and design software tailored for structural engineers. Its broad array of features accommodates everything from beams and trusses to complex structures like buildings, towers, tanks, cable systems, and bridges. Users can benefit from a powerful 64-bit multi-core solver, impressive 3D visualizations, and specialized elements including plate, frame, cable, and tension/compression-only types, as well as tools for moving loads and integrations with various CAD and building management systems. Choosing SPACE GASS means optimizing your resources with cost-effective, safe, and efficient designs. The user-friendly graphical interface allows for immediate visual feedback on changes, enhancing the design process. Additionally, a rapid sparse matrix solver takes full advantage of multi-core processing capabilities for increased efficiency. The software features a diverse suite of structural modeling tools, analysis methodologies, and design modules to meet various engineering needs. Moreover, an array of comprehensive video tutorials is available to guide users through complex tasks effectively. Finally, the software can be configured for either stand-alone use or floating network systems, adding flexibility for different working environments.

Fatigue Essentials is a desktop software designed to streamline the process of structural fatigue analysis. This application offers an intuitive interface for performing stress-life evaluations, utilizing either traditional stress calculations or integrating with FEMAP™ to leverage finite element analysis results. The program is designed with a user-friendly tree structure that guides users through various stages of analysis, starting with selections related to loads, materials, and spectrum branches. Each section allows for different variations of analysis or methods of input. Users can view analysis results directly on the screen, which can be easily copied into reports or visualized as damage contour plots in FEMAP. It encompasses a wide range of engineering needs, featuring a classic mode that allows for manual input of stresses and a professional mode linked with FEMAP, which can read nodal stresses and generate damage contour visualizations. Additionally, users have the flexibility to choose between interactive input or file uploads for entering stresses and cycles, enhancing the application's versatility. Ultimately, Fatigue Essentials stands out as an essential tool for engineers engaged in fatigue analysis.

GEMS, which stands for Geotechnical Engineering Modelling Software, creates sophisticated and user-friendly CAD applications specifically tailored for the evaluation and design of foundations. This suite utilizes finite element modeling methods to effectively analyze both shallow and deep foundation systems, featuring dedicated modules for assessing beam foundations, pile foundations, and a unique option for offshore pile foundations. You can experience the GEMS foundation analysis suite at no cost through a cloud-based platform. Additionally, it is accessible for trial downloads and available for purchase on both PC and Mac systems, ensuring a wide range of users can benefit from its advanced capabilities. Whether you are a student or a professional, GEMS provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your foundation design projects.

Regardless of whether your project pertains to civil engineering or mining, and whether it is situated above or below ground, RS2 provides a comprehensive platform for analyzing stress and deformation, ensuring stability, designing supports, and managing staged excavations seamlessly. The software incorporates an integrated seepage analysis tool that addresses groundwater flow in both steady-state and transient scenarios, making it ideal for evaluating dams, slopes, tunnels, and excavations. By utilizing the shear strength reduction method, RS2 automates slope stability assessments through finite element analysis, effectively determining the critical strength reduction factor. Additionally, various analysis methods such as slope stability, groundwater seepage, consolidation, and dynamic analysis can be employed for embankment evaluations. RS2 also features dynamic analysis capabilities and a wide array of advanced constitutive models to effectively model abrupt strength loss due to liquefaction. Designed for versatility, RS2 allows for the analysis of stability, stress, deformation, bench design, and support structures for both open-pit and underground excavations, ensuring comprehensive support across various engineering disciplines. This adaptability makes RS2 an invaluable tool for engineers seeking to optimize their project outcomes.

Engineers and researchers can use WELSIM finite-element analysis software to create prototype virtual products and conduct simulation studies.

nCode DesignLife serves as a proactive design tool that pinpoints essential areas and estimates realistic fatigue lifespans based on top finite element (FE) analysis results applicable to both metals and composites. This innovative tool empowers design engineers to enhance their approach beyond basic stress assessments, enabling them to simulate real-world loading scenarios and thereby mitigate the risks of both under-design and over-design in their products, which can lead to expensive modifications later on. Additionally, the software offers features like virtual shaker testing, fatigue analysis for welds, vibration fatigue assessments, crack growth monitoring, fatigue evaluation for composites, and thermo-mechanical fatigue studies. It leverages advanced technologies for analyzing multiaxial stress, weld integrity, short-fiber composites, vibrational impacts, crack propagation, and thermal stress fatigue. With a user-friendly graphical interface, it facilitates comprehensive fatigue analysis using data from leading FEA tools such as ANSYS, Nastran, Abaqus, Altair OptiStruct, LS-Dyna, among others. Moreover, it incorporates multi-threaded and distributed processing capabilities, enabling efficient handling of large finite element models and optimizing overall usage schedules. This powerful combination of features ultimately ensures that engineers can deliver more reliable and efficient designs.

Enhance your decision-making process with Tecplot 360, the ultimate CFD post-processing tool. As more CFD simulations are conducted and grid sizes expand, the necessity for effective handling of large data sets and automated workflows becomes increasingly important. With Tecplot 360, you can reduce idle time and focus on discovering new insights. The software allows for seamless integration of XY, 2D, and 3D plots, giving you the flexibility to design visuals according to your specifications. Present your findings through stunning images and dynamic animations to captivate your audience. Simplify repetitive tasks using PyTecplot Python scripting to enhance productivity. Ensure that you never overlook important results while analyzing parametric data with the powerful Chorus tool. Access vast remote data securely through the SZL-Server client-server connection. Tecplot 360 supports a wide array of data formats including Tecplot, FLUENT, Plot3D, CGNS, OpenFOAM, FVCOM, VTU, and over 22 others related to CFD, FEA, and structural analysis. Additionally, you can efficiently report and compare multiple solutions in a multi-frame setup with various pages, allowing for comprehensive analysis and presentation. The software's versatility makes it an indispensable asset for any data-driven professional.

Effortlessly generate intricate concrete geometries, encompassing single levels, ramps, and multi-tiered concrete edifices, by utilizing powerful modeling tools that also support imports from CAD and BIM applications. Conduct thorough analyses on slabs or complete structures to assess the cumulative impacts of gravity, lateral forces, and vibrations through advanced 3D finite element analysis, intuitive load distribution, and precise slab positioning. Whether you're examining an existing reinforced concrete slab or crafting a multi-story post-tensioned structure, ADAPT-Builder empowers you to oversee every facet of design, including crack management, long-term deflections, and punching shear, guaranteeing that the outcomes are both accurate and comprehensive. No matter what your concrete design requirements may be, there exists an ADAPT software solution tailored just for you. Explore different packages and take the first step toward your project. ADAPT-Builder serves as the comprehensive 3D modeling, analysis, and design hub for ADAPT-Floor Pro, Edge, MAT, and SOG, while Modeler integrates seamlessly with ADAPT-PT and RC, enhancing your design capabilities even further. With these tools at your disposal, you can confidently tackle any concrete project.

Every project presents its own set of challenges, yet conducting geotechnical analysis can be straightforward with the right tools. PLAXIS 2D streamlines the process by offering rapid computational capabilities. It enables sophisticated finite element or limit equilibrium analysis concerning soil and rock deformation and stability, including aspects like soil-structure interaction, groundwater, and thermal dynamics. As an exceptionally powerful and intuitive finite-element (FE) software, PLAXIS 2D specializes in 2D analyses relevant to geotechnical engineering and rock mechanics. Used globally by leading engineering firms and academic institutions, PLAXIS is a staple in the civil and geotechnical sectors. The software proves to be versatile, accommodating various applications such as excavations, embankments, foundations, tunneling, mining, oil and gas projects, and reservoir geomechanics. Notably, PLAXIS 2D encompasses all necessary features for conducting deformation and safety assessments for soil and rock, without delving into complex factors like creep, steady-state groundwater, thermal flow, consolidation, or any time-dependent phenomena. This makes it an invaluable resource for engineers focused on efficiency and accuracy in their analyses.

RadCAD employs an advanced, oct-tree accelerated Monte-Carlo ray tracing algorithm to calculate radiation exchange factors and view factors with remarkable speed. The enhancements introduced by C&R Technologies in the ray tracing methodology have led to the development of a highly efficient thermal radiation analysis tool. By utilizing finite difference "conics" or curved finite elements from TD Direct®, RadCAD is capable of precisely simulating diffuse and specular reflections as well as transmissive surfaces, independent of node density. The thermal solution's requirements govern the node quantity, rather than the precision needed for radiation calculations. Furthermore, RadCAD allows users to create custom databases that specify optical properties, with each surface coating detailing its absorptivity, transmissivity, reflectivity, and specularity in both solar and infrared wavelengths. These optical characteristics can be tailored to account for variations in incident angles or wavelength dependencies, enhancing the accuracy and relevance of thermal modeling. Ultimately, this level of customization ensures that RadCAD meets diverse analytical needs across various applications.

SolidFEA is a groundbreaking solid finite element analysis tool that aims to make sophisticated structural engineering design both more accessible and cost-effective. Utilizing the Calculix engine, it provides in-depth sub-model analysis while requiring less financial investment and computing power compared to competitors such as Abaqus. This software is particularly well-suited for tackling intricate engineering challenges, such as those found in steel connections and bridge engineering, and it empowers users by making specialized software easier to access. With its ability to import IFC file formats, SolidFEA integrates smoothly into existing engineering workflows, enhancing the functionality of our GenFEA software for thorough structural analysis. By lowering entry barriers traditionally tied to solid finite element analysis (FEA), SolidFEA represents a significant advancement in structural engineering design and encourages innovation by allowing more engineers to participate in complex projects. Ultimately, its user-friendly design and compatibility features facilitate a new era of efficiency in engineering practices.

GenFEA exemplifies our commitment and passion, resulting from extensive years of careful research and development. This project, fueled by our enthusiasm, is on the brink of transforming the industry with its AI-powered features that introduce cutting-edge technological innovations to the worldwide market. We believe that with GenFEA, we can create a remarkable influence by providing pioneering solutions that address the intricate challenges and requirements of the global AEC sector. Traditionally, structural engineering software has been burdened with high costs, complex learning processes, and a sluggish pace in adopting modern technological advancements. By harnessing the power of the latest artificial intelligence, delivering a seamless user experience, and maintaining affordability, GenFEA is committed to making sophisticated structural analysis and design tools more accessible, user-friendly, and aligned with the groundbreaking technologies shaping our time. Ultimately, our goal is to empower professionals in the field with tools that enhance their capabilities and efficiency in project execution.

e-Xstream engineering specializes in the development and commercialization of the Digimat software suite, which features advanced multi-scale material modeling technology that accelerates the creation of composite materials and structures. Serving as a fundamental component of the 10xICME Solution, Digimat enables in-depth analyses of materials at the microscopic level and facilitates the creation of micromechanical models that are essential for integrating micro- and macroscopic interactions. The material models provided by Digimat allow for the combination of processing simulations with structural finite element analysis (FEA), paving the way for more accurate predictions by considering how processing conditions affect the final product's performance. Utilizing Digimat as an efficient and predictive tool significantly aids users in the design and manufacturing of cutting-edge composite materials and components, leading to substantial savings in time and costs. Ultimately, this capability empowers engineers to push the boundaries of innovation in composite material applications.

HyperWorks offers easy-to-learn and effective workflows that leverage domain expertise and increase team productivity. This allows for efficient development of today's complex and connected products. Engineers can now move seamlessly from one domain to another with the new HyperWorks experience. They can even create reports without ever leaving the model. HyperWorks allows you to create, explore, and optimize designs. These designs can accurately model structures, mechanisms and fluids as well as electrical, embedded software, systems designs, and manufacturing processes. The solution-specific workflows improve a variety of engineering processes, including fatigue analysis, CFD modeling, concept design optimization, design exploration, and CFD modeling. Each interface is intuitive and well-designed, and differentiated for each user. It's also consistent and easy to use.

FloCAD® serves as an add-on module for Thermal Desktop®, creating a comprehensive software solution for thermohydraulic analysis that encompasses fluid flow and heat transfer. The process of constructing fluid flow models in FloCAD closely resembles that of thermal models, allowing for the use of numerous shared commands across both model types. Users can create FloCAD models using a free-form approach, which allows for the simplification and abstraction of flow networks, or they can opt for geometry-based modeling that incorporates elements like pipe centerlines, cross-sections, and intricate vessels, as well as convection calculations linked to finite difference or finite element thermal structures. As an advanced tool for pipe flow analysis, FloCAD effectively accounts for pressure losses within piping networks arising from bends, valves, tees, and variations in flow area, among other factors. This versatility makes FloCAD a valuable asset for engineers looking to optimize system designs.

Ansys Sherlock stands out as the sole electronics design tool based on reliability physics, delivering swift and precise lifespan forecasts for electronic components, boards, and systems during the initial design phases. This automated analysis tool not only accelerates the design process but also effectively circumvents the traditional "test-fail-fix-repeat" methodology by allowing designers to meticulously simulate the interactions between silicon, metal layers, semiconductor packages, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and assemblies to identify potential failure risks stemming from thermal, mechanical, and manufacturing stresses prior to creating a prototype. With its extensive library of over 500,000 components, Sherlock efficiently transforms electronic computer-aided design (ECAD) files into detailed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA) models. Each generated model is crafted with precise geometries and material characteristics, offering a comprehensive translation of stress data. This innovative approach not only enhances the design process but also significantly reduces time-to-market for electronic products.

A robust and adaptable preprocessor designed for generating high-quality finite element meshes at an appealing cost that is significantly lower than international alternatives. It offers strength assessments for both static and dynamic loads, as well as the ability to determine natural frequencies and vibration modes. Users can also analyze critical loads and buckling modes effectively. The software supports both 2D and 3D computations for various structures, including volumetric, thin-walled, and bar configurations. It incorporates elastoplastic deformation analysis based on the Mises and Drucker-Prager models, alongside strength evaluations for large displacements. Additionally, it calculates thermal conditions, heat loss, and temperature-induced deformations in parts and structures, while also providing strength assessments for materials with high elasticity. This comprehensive approach ensures that engineers can conduct thorough analyses across a wide range of applications.

S-FRAME empowers users to design, analyze, and model a wide array of structures, accommodating varying geometric complexities, material types, loading conditions, nonlinear behaviors, and compliance with diverse design codes. Its automated framework generators enable rapid model creation and support the importation of models through BIM and DXF links, allowing for enhanced productivity with integrated tools for concrete and steel design that facilitate design optimization, adherence to codes, and comprehensive report generation. Users are able to swiftly define structures through modeling automation, which includes the capability to create standard or custom trusses and utilize cloning tools to duplicate any portion of their models. Moreover, the ability to import existing BIM and DXF models significantly reduces the time spent on modeling. S-FRAME also features sophisticated meshing tools that construct the finite element mesh, enabling users to derive detailed analytical results for targeted areas of interest. Furthermore, users can delve deeper into these areas by seamlessly converting members into multi-shell models, enhancing their analytical capabilities. Overall, S-FRAME provides a comprehensive solution for modern structural design and analysis needs.

Tidy3D, developed by Flexcompute, is an incredibly swift electromagnetic (EM) solver that utilizes the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) technique. Its remarkable speed stems from the efficient co-design of both its software and hardware, allowing it to perform simulations significantly quicker than competing EM solvers. This unparalleled speed enables users to tackle problems that span hundreds of wavelengths, a task that traditional methods often struggle to handle effectively. Consequently, Tidy3D opens up new possibilities for researchers and engineers dealing with complex electromagnetic challenges.

SDC Verifier serves as a comprehensive software tool for structural design, finite element analysis (FEA), and compliance verification with relevant design codes and standards. It can function as a standalone application or as an add-on to platforms like Ansys Mechanical, Femap, and Simcenter 3D, enhancing their capabilities for engineers and designers.