Best Structural Engineering Software with a Free Trial of 2025

ACTCAD is suitable for professional drawings creation for Architects, Structural Engineers, Civil Engineres, Mechanical Drawings, Electrical drawings, interior design, tool design, machine designs etc.ActCAD is professional grade 2D Drafting and 3D Modeling CAD software which works in dwg and dxf file formats. Most affordable cad software.ActCAD is a native dwg/dxf cad software suitable for professional 2D drafting and 3D modeling projects. ActCAD is trusted by over 30000 users in over 103 countries for more than 10 years. The interface, commands, icons, dialogs, shortcuts etc. are very much similar to other popular cad software tools available in market. Flexible license types available even for single license. There is no learning for existing cad users while saving 80% of the costs.ActCAD offers free email technical support without any limitations. ActCAD can be fully customized and programs can be developed using our free API toolkit. It supports popular programming languages like , lisp dcl, .net, C++ etc. Apart from all regular commands, ActCAD offers many productive tools like pdf to cad converter, Block libraries, Image to Cad converter, handling point sets between Cad and Excel and many more.

SkyCiv Structural 3D, a cloud-based Structural Analysis program, allows users to design, analyze, and model complex 3D structures. It can be used online and does not require installation. SkyCiv Structural 3D is the best online structural analysis. It includes the following: – Powerful Analysis: Linear and P-Delta Cables, Buckling Plates, Frequency RS - Integrated design checks for steel, wood connections, foundations wind (AISC. NSD. AISI. EN. AS. CSA. BS plus more ...)

Geomage, a global company, develops and provides advanced technologies for seismic processing and interpretation. It also offers services and software to a wide range of oil and natural gas companies. Geomage's seismic-processing portfolio is based upon the innovative MultiFocusing™ technology. This has been used for hundreds of exploration sites across the globe to provide the most accurate imaging and better structural and stratigraphic detail of the subsurface. The g-Viewer is a tool that allows the visualization and selection of seismic datasets on a 3D scene. The view is available as a commercial version, and allows for the plotting of 2D sections and volumes.

Vertex BD serves as a comprehensive BIM solution tailored for medium to large residential builders. This software facilitates the creation of architectural and structural drawing sets, fabrication drawings, material reports, manufacturing data, and marketing renderings, all derived from a singular building model. By automating the generation of site-specific drawing sets, Vertex BD enables production home builders to conserve significant hours that would otherwise be spent recreating drawings for various customer-selected house options. Component manufacturers and panelizers primarily utilize Vertex BD as panel prefab software, streamlining the creation of wall and floor panel fabrication drawings, structural layouts, cut lists, and additional material reports. This automation not only saves manufacturers a remarkable amount of design, drafting, and estimation time but also significantly reduces the risk of errors during construction. Furthermore, Vertex BD is compatible with both wood and cold-formed steel construction methods, making it a versatile tool in the building industry. Its ability to integrate various aspects of the building process into one platform enhances efficiency and accuracy across projects.

ideCAD One AEC is a multidisciplinary BIM software for Architecture, Structural Engineering and Detailing. It also includes Building Information Modeling (BIM). The Integrated Package offers Structural Engineers and Detailers Integrated BIM, AEC and CAD Tools that support projects at all stages of design and construction. Integrated design tools help you create high-quality, high performance Architectural and structural designs. Optimise projects with integrated Structural Analysis, Steel Design, Concrete Design, Connection Design, visualization and simulation tools. Improve predictability on the field by using integrated tools that maximize constructability. Integrated workflows for integrated modeling, multi-discipline coordination and construction documentation can accelerate design processes and improve the quality of designs.

SCIA Engineer is a multi-material, integrated structural analysis software and design tool that can be used to design all types of structures. It is a versatile tool that can be used to design office buildings, industrial plants and bridges, as well as other projects, in a single, easy-to-use environment. It offers powerful CAD-like modeling, advanced calculations, code-compliant multimaterial design, and customizable reports. You can automate common situations with built-in or custom-made parametric templates for different geometries, and powerful load generation software. SCIA Engineer offers the most complete implementation of Eurocodes, including U.S. codes, and other international standards. Through powerful bi-directional links to Allplan, Revit, Tekla Structures, Open BIM’s IFC and third-party plugs-ins, seamless exchange of models with other stakeholders.

The Braceworks® add-on for Vectorworks Spotlight offers design, production, and rigging experts a streamlined method to assess the performance of temporary structures when subjected to loads. This innovative module prioritizes safety and adherence to engineering regulations, facilitating a fully integrated process for modeling, analysis, and documentation all within a single interface. With regulatory demands like the Eurocodes and the rising expectations of venues, municipalities, and property owners, event design, A/V, and rigging firms are increasingly required to provide load and structural calculations for approval by structural engineers. Users can perform static analyses and finite element method (FEM) evaluations, with results visually represented on the model for straightforward interpretation. Furthermore, it allows for the automatic creation of comprehensive calculation reports, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in the documentation process. By simplifying these complex tasks, the module ultimately supports professionals in delivering safe and compliant events.

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.

Do you spend too much time calculating cross-sections every day? Dlubal Software's RSECTION standalone program and Dlubal Software's Dlubal Software can help you by determining the section properties of different cross-sections, and then performing a stress analysis. Dlubal Software offers a stand-alone program RSECTION that allows you to calculate thin-walled or massive cross-sections in a much shorter time. The program calculates the section properties, and performs stress analysis. The seamless integration between the FEA software RFEM, and the structural frame & truss software RSTAB, allows for efficient collaboration. The RFEM and RSTAB libraries have RSECTION cross sections, and you can import the internal forces easily.

RSTAB is a powerful software that allows structural engineers to meet the requirements of modern civil engineering. It provides a 3D beam, frame or truss calculation. Use the RSTAB software to design beam, frame or truss constructions made of steel, concrete, wood, aluminum or other materials. RSTAB allows you to quickly and easily define a structure model, then calculate internal forces, deformations and support reactions. You can use the design add-ons to take into account material- and standard specific requirements.

In the intuitive interface of 123Build, users can effortlessly sketch a beam of a frame structure directly on the screen. Following this, the model is enhanced through a graphical and interactive process that incorporates boundary conditions along with both permanent and variable loads. 123Build takes care of the complexities, consistently producing optimal outcomes such as beams with minimal height, steel profiles with reduced weight, or girders that adhere to maximum deflection limits, allowing for both efficient and rapid design. This comprehensive solution encompasses all essential features required for effective structural design, culminating in the generation of a concise and easily understandable analysis report. Additionally, 123Build provides a detailed reinforcement sketch along with a material quantity list, which includes the total volume of timber and concrete, the overall weight and volume of reinforcement, as well as the painting surface and steel weight, ensuring a thorough understanding of the project’s requirements. This all-in-one approach not only streamlines the design process but also enhances accuracy in material estimation and structural integrity.

ClearCalcs cloud structural engineering software allows engineers and designers to simplify repetitive calculations using easy-to-use calculators for beams and columns, foundations, and other important information. ClearCalcs has calculators for all standards including the US, Eurocode, Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian. ClearCalcs can help you improve your productivity and design ability. Calculations can be linked together in one click, saving time and errors copy paste loads. Reports print to a simple one-page PDF for easy inspection.

Revit, a Building Information Modelling (BIM) software, empowers engineers, designers, and contractors in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) sectors to create intricate models and facilitate collaboration among all stakeholders involved in a construction project. By utilizing Revit, the engineering design workflow is optimized, allowing users to work from a single model that improves communication regarding design intent prior to the commencement of construction. This enables early simulations and clash detection, leading to a more efficient design phase. Moreover, it provides essential data for energy analysis that supports engineering-based calculations. Users can design, model, and document building systems while integrating architectural and structural elements into a comprehensive building information model. Additionally, Revit offers tools specifically designed for automating the layout of fabrication models, preparing them for detailed coordination during fabrication and installation processes. Ultimately, Revit enhances the precision of the team’s work and accelerates project delivery, resulting in a more streamlined construction experience. The software’s capabilities not only improve individual contributions but also foster a cohesive approach to building project management.

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.

MasterSeries PowerPad represents a comprehensive suite for structural analysis and design, making it an excellent choice for engineers seeking extensive design features at a remarkably low cost. By offering scaled-down versions of its primary analysis and design tools, MasterSeries PowerPad ensures that a variety of established programs are accessible for less than one-third of their standard pricing. Central to PowerPad is the robust MasterFrame analysis module, which seamlessly connects with design modules for steel, concrete, composite, and timber, creating a fully integrated, three-dimensional analysis and design workspace. Additionally, the PowerPad (Student Edition) is available for free, providing students access to our commercial PowerPad Plus suite. Unlike mere proformas, PowerPad bundles lightweight versions of true software applications, including straightforward designs for steel, concrete, and timber beams, along with the capability to analyze beams, trusses, plane frames, grillages, and space frames. This extensive functionality supports engineers in executing a wide array of design projects efficiently.

The user interface of our software has been designed for maximum ease of use. Users can create geometry in multiple views using sophisticated modeling tools, or they can input data through spreadsheets, all seamlessly integrated within RISA-3D. This powerful tool offers analysis and design capabilities that facilitate the quick creation of various structures, accommodating a diverse selection of materials. You can design everything from buildings and bridges to tanks and culverts, covering a vast array of engineering needs. Detailed reports can be generated, featuring both graphical and numerical results, which provide comprehensive output and instill confidence in your designs for you and your team. The latest iteration of RISA-3D's user interface has been tailored specifically to the workflow of structural engineers. It employs a straightforward left-to-right, tab-by-tab ribbon system that allows users to easily navigate their models from initial concepts to final design refinement by simply following the sequence of icons. Moreover, the interface offers customization options, enabling users to keep their most frequently used tools readily accessible at all times, enhancing their efficiency even further. Ultimately, this thoughtful design ensures that engineers can focus more on innovation and less on navigating complex software.

Simright Simulator allows users to import CAD models and perform structural analysis directly in a web browser, making it highly user-friendly. Even those without any prior experience in CAE analysis can swiftly carry out simulations. This tool is capable of addressing intricate structural challenges across various industries through an online platform. By utilizing CAE technology, it significantly lowers the expenses associated with physical experiments, empowering users to make more informed decisions. Moreover, its accessibility ensures that more individuals can leverage advanced analysis capabilities, further enhancing productivity and innovation.

Advance Design serves as a robust and user-friendly FEM Structural Analysis tool specifically tailored for structural engineers working within a BIM ecosystem. It adeptly handles the design of various structures, accommodating different load types while integrating concrete, timber, and steel components seamlessly. With compliance to significant code standards, including Eurocodes and North American guidelines, Advance Design elevates the BIM experience significantly. It fosters intelligent, model-driven workflows that benefit engineers and construction professionals alike. By functioning as a BIM platform, it ensures the preservation of geometric and analytical data throughout the design process via smooth model transfers. Furthermore, analysis outcomes are preserved within the Digital Model and contribute meaningfully to the BIM workflow. For example, these results can facilitate the initiation of rebar designs or steel connection processes directly within Revit, creating innovative opportunities in structural design. With its powerful capabilities, user-friendly interface, and full compatibility with Revit®, Advance Design is backed by a dedicated team of experts and offers a flexible licensing structure to accommodate diverse user needs. This combination of features makes it an essential tool for modern structural engineering.

Effortlessly merge design and analysis into a single, streamlined model-based approach. Our user-friendly, integrated software for design and analysis empowers engineers to swiftly produce safe, effective, and optimized designs, regardless of the structural materials used. Experience a transformation in your workflow today! Tekla Structural Designer equips engineers to analyze and design buildings with remarkable efficiency and profitability. With extensive automation and an array of unique features tailored for optimal concrete and steel design, Tekla Structural Designer enables engineering firms to secure more projects and enhance their profit margins. From quickly evaluating various design options to managing changes cost-effectively and fostering seamless collaboration in BIM, Tekla Structural Designer can significantly elevate your business performance. Achieve quicker design cycles and improve your profitability, as the creation of a unified model with a single dataset ensures smooth and effective BIM integration. The impact on your productivity will be evident as you implement this powerful tool.

AutoPIPE is an extensive and sophisticated software solution focused on conducting pipe stress analysis. It enhances productivity and elevates quality control through an easy-to-use modeling interface paired with advanced analytical features. The software enables seamless collaboration among pipe stress engineers, structural engineers, and CAD designers by offering compatibility with top plant design software. Furthermore, AutoPIPE encompasses specialized tools for in-depth analysis of buried pipelines, operational clash detection under hot conditions, wave loading scenarios, fluid transients, and the assessment of FRP/GRP or plastic pipes. It also streamlines workflows by integrating effortlessly with a variety of Bentley and third-party applications, including OpenPlant, AutoPLANT, PlantSpace, Hexagon PDS, SmartPlant, Autodesk Plant 3D, and Aveva E3D Design. Additionally, AutoPIPE intelligently identifies the most effective locations for pipe supports, ensuring that your design is both financially efficient and meets all necessary safety and quality standards. Ultimately, AutoPIPE serves as an invaluable asset for engineers seeking to optimize their piping systems while adhering to industry best practices.

When utilized early in the product development process, Inspire enhances the creation, optimization, and examination of innovative and structurally efficient components and assemblies through collaborative efforts. Its award-winning interface for geometry creation and modification can be mastered within just a few hours, all while providing the robust power of Altair solvers. The structural analysis capabilities, validated by NAFEMS, allow for swift and accurate evaluations using Altair® SimSolid®, making it possible to analyze extensive assemblies and intricate parts. Additionally, it offers dynamic motion simulation and load extraction through the trusted multi-body systems analysis of Altair® MotionSolve®. Furthermore, Altair® OptiStruct® sets the industry benchmark for structural efficiency with its topology optimization, facilitating generative design that yields practical and manufacturable geometries. Inspire empowers both simulation analysts and designers to conduct what-if analyses more quickly and easily, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation. This approach not only enhances productivity but also encourages teams to explore a wider range of design possibilities earlier in the development cycle.

LIRA-SAPR is a comprehensive software package that uses BIM technology. This software is used to analyze and design different types of mechanical and building engineering structures. - Dynamic (forces and displacements), and static analyses - Selection and inspection of sections of steel and/or reinforced cement (RC) structures - Preliminary drawings for steel structures and separate RC elements

MasterSeries stands as the premier suite of integrated software for structural analysis, design, drafting, and detailing in the UK, boasting a user base of over 10,000 across the globe. It offers a leading-edge, multi-material BIM-enabled modeling and design environment, complemented by an array of robust standalone modules, making it the most comprehensive collection of advanced structural engineering software available in one package. This integration allows users to maximize productivity by minimizing the need to switch between various incompatible systems and re-enter the same information repeatedly. Recognizing that every business has unique needs, MasterSeries is designed with a modular approach, ensuring that companies can tailor their software solutions to fit their specific requirements without the burden of purchasing a large, expensive package filled with unnecessary features. By allowing users to select only the modules essential for their operations, MasterSeries empowers businesses to craft a customized software experience that adapts to their evolving needs, thereby enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in their projects. Ultimately, this flexibility not only streamlines workflows but also supports future growth by enabling easy adjustments as business demands change.

S-FRAME empowers users to model, analyze, and design any type of structure, accommodating a wide range of geometric complexities, material specifications, loading scenarios, nonlinear behaviors, and design code stipulations. The platform features automated framework generators that facilitate rapid model creation and offers seamless integration with BIM and DXF formats, allowing users to enhance their efficiency with built-in design tools for concrete and steel, which support design, optimization, code adherence, and report generation. Through S-FRAME, users can swiftly define structures with advanced modeling automation, enabling the generation of regular framework structures and both standard and custom trusses, while clone tools allow for the easy replication of entire models or specific sections. Moreover, the ability to import existing BIM and DXF models significantly reduces modeling time, further improving productivity. The sophisticated meshing capabilities of S-FRAME create a detailed finite element mesh, equipping users to derive comprehensive analysis results tailored to their areas of interest. Lastly, users have the flexibility to delve deeper into their analysis by converting members into multi-shell models, enhancing their understanding and evaluation of structural performance.