FEA Software

Commercial FEA Software

Abaqus

Developer:

Dassault Systèmes (SIMULIA)

Primary Focus:

Nonlinear FEA, multiphysics and complex simulations

Features:

Linear and highly nonlinear static/dynamic analysis.
Advanced contact algorithms for impact, wear and friction.
Detailed material modelling (plasticity, hyperelasticity etc).
Multiphysics simulations, including thermal and fluid-structure interaction (FSI).
Integrated with SIMULA product lifecycle management (PLM) tools.

Strengths:

Excellent for complex nonlinear simulation.
Advanced material modelling capabilities.
Strong in structural and crash simulations.

Weaknesses:

Expensive.
Steep learning curve.
Resource-heavy for large-scale problems.

Pricing:

Expensive (enterprise level pricing)

ANSYS Mechanical

Developer:

ANSYS Inc.

Primary Focus:

General-purpose FEA for a wide range of physics

Features:

Linear and nonlinear structural analysis.
Thermal, fluid and coupled-field analysis.
Advanced material models, including composites.
Explicit dynamics for impact and crash simulations.
Built-in optimization tools and parametric studies.

Strengths:

Highly accurate simulations across a broad range of physics.
Robust solver with high performance for large models.
Extensive material libary and advanced analysis capabilities.

Weaknesses:

Expensive, complex to master.
Steep learning curve for new users.

Pricing:

Expensive subscription based (enterprise level)

COMSOL Multiphysics

Developer:

COMSOL Inc.

Primary Focus:

Multiphysics simulation with customizable FEA modules

Features:

Multiphysics coupling for thermal, structural, fluid and electrical simulations.
Predefined modules for various industries (e.g. AC/DC, acoustics, heat transfer etc).
Parametric sweeps and optimization.
User-defined partial differential equations (PDEs).
Extensive material libaries and custom material support.

Strengths:

Excellent for simulations that involve multiple physics domains.
Customization of equations for unique simulations.
Intuitive interface for complex setups.

Weaknesses:

Limited for purely structural or mechanical simulations.
Performance can suffer for very large models.

Pricing:

Moderate-high, depending on modules used.

MSC Nastran/Patran

Developer:

MSC Software (Hexagon)

Primary Focus:

High-performance FEA for structural analysis

Features:

Linear and nonlinear analysis for structural problems.
Dynamics analysis, including vibration, noise and fatigue.
Advanced material modelling and composites.
Integration with Patran for pre- and post processing.
High-performance solvers for large-scale models.

Strengths:

Excellent for linear statics, dynamics and advanced materials.
Highly scalable for large problems.
Robust solver used in aerospace and automotive industries.

Weaknesses:

Steel learning curve and old interface (Patran).
Less intuitive compared to modern FEA tools.

Pricing:

Expensive (enterprise level pricing).

SolidWorks Simulation

Developer:

Dassault Systèmes

Primary Focus:

FEA integrated within SolidWorks for mechancial simulation

Features:

Static, dynamic, thermal and fatigue analysis.
Linear and basic nonlinear analysis.
Contact and weld analysis for assemblies.
Integrated within SolidWorks for seamless workflow.
Parametric study and design optimization options.

Strengths:

Seamless integration with Solidworks CAD.
Easy to use..
Good for typical mechanical and structural analysis.

Weaknesses:

Limited in advanced nonlinear, explicit dynamics and multiphysics.
Not ideal for complex geometries or large assemblies..

Pricing:

Moderate, within SolidWorks subscription/licensing