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Engineering CAD Software

Engineering CAD (Computer Aided Design) software assists engineers in designing and drafting parts, products, and structures that can be done in two or three dimensions. CAD software usually allows solid and surface modeling, rotations in three dimensions, and dynamic mathematic modeling.

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Powerful cloud-based Structural Analysis program that allows users to model, analyze and design complex 3D structures. Learn more about SkyCiv Structural 3D
SkyCiv Structural 3D is a cloud-based Structural Analysis software that allows users to model, analyze and design complex 3D structures. It is completely online; requiring no installation to use. SkyCiv Structural 3D offers the very best in online structural analysis. It includes the following: - Powerful Analysis: Linear, 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...) Learn more about SkyCiv Structural 3D

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  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
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  • 2D Drawing
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2D and 3D CAD software with design automation and engineering toolsets, plus web and mobile apps.
CAD software used for precise 2D and 3D drafting, design, and modeling with solids, surfaces, mesh objects, documentation features, and more. It includes features to automate tasks and increase productivity such as comparing drawings, counting, adding objects, and creating tables. It also comes with seven industry-specific toolsets for electrical design, plant design, architecture layout drawings, mechanical design, 3D mapping, adding scanned images, and converting raster images. Learn more about AutoCAD

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  • Presentation Tools
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MATLAB is a programming software for engineers and scientists to analyze data, develop algorithms, and create models.
MATLAB is a programming and numeric computing platform software used by engineers and scientists for data analysis, algorithm development, modeling, and more. Developed by MathWorks, MATLAB features a desktop environment for iterative processes along with a programming language optimized for matrix and array math. MATLAB provides toolboxes for signal processing, machine learning, image processing, control systems, and other domains. Users can create scripts, functions, apps, and programs to acquire, analyze, visualize and model data. Learn more about MATLAB

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  • Presentation Tools
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Built on 50 years of experience and fueled by innovation, Sage’s construction suite covers preconstruction, operations, and finance.
As the longstanding leader in construction financial solutions, Sage has been the go-to choice for years, and continues to be at the forefront of innovation. Our native cloud construction suite seamlessly integrates preconstruction, operations, and financial management solutions, while also connecting with commonly used applications to streamline data management and business operations. Backed by our extensive partner network, trusted by thousands of construction companies for over half a century, Sage offers the vital capabilities, adaptability, and support crucial for thriving in the construction industry. From expediting estimating processes and optimizing profitability to simplifying operations, Sage provides the comprehensive toolkit you need to excel. Product Included in Sage Construction Suite: Sage Intacct Construction Sage Construction Management Sage 300 CRE Sage 100 Contractor Sage Estimating Sage Field Operations Sage Intacct Real Estate Learn more about Sage Construction Suite

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Design Analysis
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Mechanical CAD, design validation, product data management, design communication, and CAD productivity tools in a single package.
SolidWorks Premium seamlessly integrates powerful design tools-including industry-leading part, assembly, and drawing capabilities with built in simulation, rendering, animation, product data management and cost estimation. SolidWorks will help you get work done faster and easier than before, using innovative phases of product creation to achieve a more productive 3D design experience. Learn more about SolidWorks Premium

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
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Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM software that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT.
Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM software that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT. Onshape is for product design companies who are fed up with the errors, time waste, and hidden costs of outdated file-based CAD & PDM. Onshape is the only cloud-native product development solution that integrates CAD, data management, and analytics in one platform. The leader in cloud-native CAD & PDM, Onshape is the only system built to fully leverage all the benefits the cloud has to offer. Onshape eliminates the version-control issues and data loss common to file-based CAD, enabling teams to accelerate time to market, and delight their customers. Today, Onshape is the fastest growing CAD/PDM product development platform in the world, growing at 7x the rate of the CAD industry overall. With over 4 million users worldwide, leading companies across the globe rely on Onshape to streamline and optimize their product development process. Learn more about Onshape

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  • Presentation Tools
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Inventor 3D CAD software offers professional-grade 3D design, documentation, and product simulation tools. Call us at +44 203 318 4259
Autodesk® Inventor® software provides engineers with powerful mechanical design solutions for their most ambitious ideas. Work with a complete set of tools for 3D modeling, simulation, and documentation. Learn more about Inventor

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Design Analysis
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Cloud-based 3D CAD/CAM tool to bring your design teams together and connect your entire product development processes on one platform.
Cloud-based 3D CAD/CAM tool to bring your design teams together and connect your entire product development processes on one platform. Learn more about Fusion 360

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  • Presentation Tools
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Create 2D drawings more efficiently
AutoCAD LT provides simple instruction for mastering AutoCAD LT drawing and dimensioning techniques. Text content presents typical applications of AutoCAD LT with basic and advanced concepts. Produce 2D documentations and drawings with advanced set of editing and annotation tools, while still utilizing AutoCAD's simplified and user friendly instruction. Learn more about AutoCAD LT

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  • Presentation Tools
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ActCAD is professional grade 2D Drafting and 3D Modeling CAD software which works in dwg and dxf file formats. Most affordable cad S/W.
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. ActCAD is suitable for any high end professional projects in the domains of Architecture, Civil, Mechanical,Automotive Learn more about ActCAD

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
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Product design software that addresses all manufacturing organizations, from OEMs through their supply chains, to small producers.
Product design software that addresses all manufacturing organizations, from OEMs through their supply chains, to small producers. Learn more about CATIA

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
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Engineering design CAD software providing modeling, drafting and visualization for engineers & infrastructure professionals
MicroStation is the only 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software purpose-built for infrastructure design, helping architects, engineers, and construction professionals like you bring their vision to life, present their designs to their clients, and deliver their projects to the community. Providing you power, flexibility, and best-in-class tools, without requiring add-ons, MicroStation makes it easy to work the way you want, leaving you time to do what you do best. Learn more about MicroStation

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
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  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
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Technical computing system that provides tools for image processing, geometry, visualization, machine learning, data mining, and more.
Technical computing system that provides tools for image processing, geometry, visualization, machine learning, data mining, and more. Learn more about Wolfram Mathematica

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
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ANSYS SpaceClaim is a multipurpose 3D modeling application providing efficient solutions to common modeling tasks.
ANSYS SpaceClaim is a 3D CAD solution designed to help engineers and analysts create parts, auto surface mesh data, and recreate fixtures. The platform enables professionals to remove geometry problems associated with various 3D CAD operations, such as design or concept modeling, repair of translated CAD files, general model defeaturing, and complete model editing. It also lets administrators parameterize CAD files and prepare models for 3D printing using a unified interface. Learn more about Ansys SpaceClaim

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
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Comprehensive mechanical CAD including modeling, sheet metal, drawings, rendering, scripting, automation, design libraries, API & more.
Lifetime licenses you own. Over 23 years, Alibre's mature 3D CAD solutions have grown to power engineering for tens of thousands of businesses and individuals. Comprehensive part and assembly modeling, sheet-metal modeling, 2D documentation & BOM creation, configurations and data-driven modeling automation provide the engineering foundation. Extend for your use case with a robust API, create marketing/bid/POC materials with rendering, and work with others with industry-leading interoperability. Learn more about Alibre Design

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
Run fluid flow, structural, or thermal high-fidelity engineering simulations in minutes via a web browser. No special hardware required
SimScale enables engineering teams to access accurate and fast simulation, on their terms, without compromise. We make engineering simulation technically and economically accessible from everywhere, at any time, and at any scale, in the cloud. We deliver instant access to fluid, thermal, and structural simulation to hundreds of thousands of users worldwide. With SimScale, high-fidelity multiphysics simulation has moved to an agile, cloud-native engineering simulation platform. Learn more about SimScale

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
Open-source parametric 3D modeler with modular architecture for designing machine tools and architectural designs in 2D and 3D.
Open-source engineering CAD solution that helps architects create and modify designs of multiple objects for generating production-ready drawings. Designers can use FreeCAD to adjust the dimensions of a product and sketch geometry-constrained 2D shapes and drive formula-based models using an integrated spreadsheet. Using its technical drawing module, team members can generate 2D views of 3D models, perform graphical modification operations, and save files in SVG or PDF formats. Learn more about FreeCAD

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
ArcSite is the leader in mobile drawing and drawing-based takeoff, data collection, and estimate solutions.
ArcSite is the leader in mobile drawing and drawing-based takeoff, and estimate solutions. With ArcSite, you can easily create beautiful, professional-looking drawings on an iPad, Android tablet, or Windows device in just minutes. You can then automatically generate a takeoff, calculate cost and margin, and even produce a winning proposal, all while working in the field, or anywhere you want to work. ArcSite can help you win more business, save time, and improve collaboration with your team. Learn more about ArcSite

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
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  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
CAD solution that helps businesses create 3D or 2D figures and variants of configurable products using direct and parametric modeling.
Creo is a 3D CAD solution that helps you build better products faster by accelerating product innovation, reusing the best of your design and replacing assumptions with facts. From initial concept to design, simulation, and analysis, Creo provides designers with innovative tools to efficiently create better products. Thousands of leading manufacturers worldwide use Creo's CAD, IoT, and Augmented Reality capabilities, in the cloud and on the desktop, to turn their ideas into reality quickly. Learn more about Creo

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
Altium Designer is the most comprehensive, modern, end-to-end solution for professional PCB designers and mechanical engineers.
Altium Designer is the most comprehensive, modern, end-to-end solution designed for PCB designers and the number one choice among engineers and designers worldwide. Representing decades of innovation and development, Altium Designer empowers a truly unified design environment, uniting teams worldwide with every aspect of the PCB design process. With the addition of Altium 365, users can choose between accessing the program online and on-premises. Learn more about Altium Designer

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
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  • 2D Drawing
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Altium 365® is the electronics product design platform that unites PCB design, MCAD, data management, and teamwork.
Altium 365® is the electronics product design platform that unites PCB design, MCAD, data management, and teamwork. Get Altium 365 integration, Altium Designer® updates, and first-class professional services all in one subscription. Learn more about Altium 365

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
An AutoCAD Clone that works with AutoCAD DWG files. No learning curve for AutoCAD users.
progeCAD Professional - 2D/3D "AutoCAD Like" CAD system that will allow you to "Afford your Design". progeCAD uses AutoCAD DWG files, no need for conversion and the interface uses the same menus and commands, no learning curve for AutoCAD users. Just 1/10th the Price, An easy replacement for AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT. Add-ons for Land Development, Architecture, HVAC/Piping, Structural, etc. Learn more about progeCAD 2010 Professional

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  • Presentation Tools
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  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
IronCAD is an intuitive 3D and 2D design solution that increases productivity, and facilitates collaboration throughout the enterprise.
CAD Programs Designed for Collaboration. The IronCAD Design Collaboration Suite is a complete range of CAD products that provides seamless collaboration between 3D and 2D to optimize your engineering teams design process and simplify 3D and 2D CAD data management and communication throughout your organization. Create bidding proposals quickly, design more iterations in less time leading to better products, and simply design faster than any other CAD system available today. Learn more about IronCAD

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
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  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
Engineering CAD tool that provides floodway mapping, 2D modeling, GIS mapping, 3D viewing, reporting, etc.
GeoHECRAS significantly speeds up HEC-RAS model creation and review, producing better and more accurate results. Rapidly construct HEC-RAS models from a variety of data sources. Accelerate engineering workflow and streamline analysis review. Compute water surface profiles for steady and unsteady flow models, bridge and culvert roadway crossings, FEMA floodplain encroachments, stream restorations, inline reservoir structures, off-channel storage areas, and much more. Learn more about GeoHECRAS

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management
Ansys Fluent is the industry-leading computational fluid dynamic software known for advanced physics modeling capabilities and accuracy
Ansys Fluent is the industry-leading computational fluid dynamic (CFD) software known for its advanced physics modeling capabilities and industry leading accuracy. Fluent gives you more time to innovate and optimize product performance. Trust your simulation results with a software that has been extensively validated across a wide range of applications. Learn more about Ansys Fluent

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  • Presentation Tools
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Data Import/Export
  • Version Control
  • Design Analysis
  • Data Visualisation
  • 3D Imaging
  • Document Management
  • 2D Drawing
  • Design Management

Engineering CAD Software Buyers Guide

What is engineering CAD software?

Engineering CAD (computer-aided design) software is used by architectural and engineering drafters to create precise 2D and 3D drawings, models, and technical illustrations of structures, products, and physical components.

The benefits of engineering CAD software

  • Consolidated design and analytics tools: The traditional paper-based design process is cumbersome and separates the design and analysis process. CAD systems consolidate design and analytical capabilities, making for a smoother workflow and increased productivity.
  • Better visualization/simulation of end products: Engineering CAD solutions with 3D modeling capabilities allow for better analysis of models under different conditions. 3D tools also offer interactive virtual tours of models for more accurate visualization of end products.

Typical features of engineering CAD software

  • Manufacturing design data storage: Collect and store all relevant manufacturing-related data for the final product such as production material, size, shape, and weight.
  • 2D drawing: Create and edit technical drawings and annotate designs.
  • 3D modeling: Represent and visualize objects using a collection of points in three dimensions.
  • Design analysis: Simulate the physical behavior of a component, product, or structure in order to minimize, or even eliminate, the need for physical prototyping and testing.
  • Design export: Convert the design into another file format that is easily readable by other users.
  • Reporting/analytics: Monitor key project metrics and report them to relevant stakeholders.

Considerations when purchasing engineering CAD software

  • Determine your requirements before choosing a CAD package: CAD software solutions come with different capabilities such as 2D CAD, 3D CAD, and multi-CAD; multi-CAD can be beneficial if you (or your partners, vendors, or clients) use different CAD systems. Then there’s the software’s deployment, which will be either cloud-based or on-premise. Ensure that the features of the options you’re considering align with your operational requirements and budget.
  • Total cost of ownership (TCO): TOC is an estimate of all the direct (procurement) and indirect costs (maintenance, upgrades, supporting/compatible hardware, etc.) associated with an asset over its entire life cycle. Before purchasing CAD software, calculate whether the TCO fits into your budget. For example, 2D software is less expensive than advanced 3D modeling tools, and the annual maintenance fees of 3D software are expensive.
  • Integration with other solutions: CAD software must be able to integrate with other systems, such as simulation tools and database software. This will allow for a seamless transfer between systems and ensure smooth workflows.
  • Augmented reality (AR) enables better visualization of 2D drawings and 3D models: With AR, a target in the real world is used to keep the augmented 3D data in the correct positioning. It allows users to walk around the object and get a 360-degree view. This provides an improved understanding of CAD drawings, geometric features, and projection views.
  • 3D printing helps design physical prototypes in less time: 3D printing is often used to create physical prototypes— thin layers of material are solidified using 3D printers. In order to print something, a design is created using 3D CAD software or by using a 3D scanner to scan the object you want to print. This CAD-3D printing partnership will help designers test multiple outputs with different specifications and finalize the most optimal configuration.