Best Structural Engineering Software for Startups
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Compare the Top Structural Engineering Software for Startups as of April 2025
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What is Structural Engineering Software for Startups?
Structural engineering software is designed to provide engineers with the tools to efficiently and accurately analyze, design, and optimize building structures. This software often offers a wide range of calculations for steel, concrete, and timber designs, allowing the user to quickly conduct structural analysis. Structural engineering software also provides 3D modeling capabilities which enable visualization of layout plans as well as generate clear drawings. In addition, these programs are often accompanied by pre-defined library elements such as walls, beams, columns and slabs which save time during the design process. Finally, some packages may include an optimizer module that assists in finding the most economical structural design solution. Compare and read user reviews of the best Structural Engineering software for Startups currently available using the table below. This list is updated regularly.
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1
SkyCiv Structural 3D
SkyCiv Engineering
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...)Starting Price: $79/month/user -
2
ideCAD One AEC
ideYAPI
ideCAD One AEC is an Integrated multidisciplinary BIM Software for Architecture, Structural Engineering, and Detailing with Building Information Modeling (BIM). The Integrated Package provides Structural Engineers, Architects, and detailers with Integrated BIM, AEC, and CAD tools that support projects from early-stage design to construction. Create high-quality, high-performing Architectural and structural design with integrated design tools. Optimize projects with integrated Structural analysis, Steel design, Concrete design, Connection design, visualization, and simulation tools. Improve predictability in the field with integrated tools that maximize constructability and project coordination. Accelerate design processes and improve quality with integrated workflows for integrated design, modeling, multidiscipline coordination, and construction documentation.Starting Price: $3,800 per year -
3
GT STRUDL
Hexagon PPM
GT STRUDL® is structural engineering software offering a complete design solution, including 3D CAD modeling and 64-bit high-performance computation solvers into all versions. GT STRUDL includes all the tools necessary to analyze a broad range of structural engineering and finite element analysis problems, including linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis, and can do so accurately in a fraction of the time of most other structural design software. Structural design software helps structural engineers create safe and effective designs, while managing the complexity of many different scenarios across a range of industries, including power, civil engineering, marine and infrastructure. Quality software includes many features, such as interoperability, structural analysis, database-driven design and quality assurance - all of which are included in GT STRUDL. -
4
ProtaStructure
Prota Software
ProtaStructure is an innovative structural BIM solution for structural engineers to model, analyze and design buildings quickly and accurately. From one central model easily compare different schemes and automate your steel and concrete design, reducing design time and increasing project profitability. Use advanced integrated features including grouped member design, 3D FE Analysis, staged construction and seismic design, foundations and punching shear checks to quickly produce results. Handle changes with ease and seamlessly coordinate projects with architects, owners and other stakeholders with intelligent BIM integration. Save time and increase project profits with ProtaStructure. -
5
Ansys Mechanical
Ansys
Ansys Mechanical is a best-in-class finite element solver with structural, thermal, acoustics, transient and nonlinear capabilities to improve your modeling. Ansys Mechanical enables you to solve complex structural engineering problems and make better, faster design decisions. With the finite element analysis (FEA) solvers available in the suite, you can customize and automate solutions for your structural mechanics problems and parameterize them to analyze multiple design scenarios. Ansys Mechanical is a dynamic tool that has a complete range of analysis tools. Ansys Mechanical offers a dynamic environment with a complete range of analysis tools, from preparing geometry for analysis to connecting additional physics for even greater fidelity. The intuitive and customizable user interface enables engineers of all levels to get answers fast and with confidence. Ansys Mechanical creates an integrated platform that uses finite element analysis (FEA) for structural analysis. -
6
RFEM
Dlubal Software
The FEA program RFEM allows for quick and easy modeling, structural and dynamic calculation, as well as the design of models with member, plate, wall, folded plate, shell, and solid elements. Due to the modular software concept, you can connect the main program RFEM with the corresponding add‑ons in order to meet your individual requirements. The structural analysis program RFEM provides structural engineers with a 3D FEA program that meets all requirements in modern civil engineering. Efficient data input and intuitive handling facilitate the modeling of simple and complex structures. The structural analysis program RFEM is the basis of a modular software system. The basic program RFEM is used to define structures, materials, and loads for planar and spatial structural systems consisting of plates, walls, shells, and members. The program also allows you to create combined structures as well as model solid and contact elements.Starting Price: €697.50 rent 1 month -
7
RSECTION
Dlubal Software
Do you often spend too long calculating cross-sections? Dlubal Software and the RSECTION stand-alone program facilitate your work by determining section properties of various cross-sections and performing a subsequent stress analysis. With the stand-alone program RSECTION, Dlubal Software provides you with a time-saving solution for the calculation of thin-walled and massive cross-sections. The program determines the section properties and performs a stress analysis. The seamless integration with the FEA software RFEM and the structural frame & truss analysis software RSTAB allows for efficient cooperation. RSECTION cross-sections are available in the RFEM and RSTAB libraries, and you can easily import the internal forces in the programs.Starting Price: €292.50 rent 1 month -
8
RSTAB
Dlubal Software
RSTAB is a powerful analysis and design software for 3D beam, frame, or truss structure calculations, reflecting the current state of the art and helping structural engineers meet requirements in modern civil engineering. Use the successful structural frame & truss analysis software RSTAB for your design of beam, frame, or truss structures consisting of steel, reinforced concrete, timber, aluminum, or other materials. With RSTAB, you can easily and quickly define a structural model and then calculate the internal forces, deformations, and support reactions. There are design add-ons at your side that you can use to consider the material- and standard-specific requirements.Starting Price: €487.50 rent 1 month -
9
ClearCalcs
ClearCalcs
ClearCalcs is a cloud structural engineering software that enables engineers and designers to streamline their repetitive calculations with easy-to-use calculators for beams, columns, foundations, and more. With calculators available for the US standards, Eurocode, Australian standards, New Zealand standards, and Canadian standards, ClearCalcs is a one-stop shop for improving your productivity and design capability. Calculations can be linked together with one click, saving on time and errors, copy-pasting loads, and reports print to a simple, one-page PDF for easy checking.Starting Price: $79.00 USD / month -
10
Revit MEP
Autodesk
Revit Building Information Modelling software helps engineers, designers and contractors across the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) disciplines model to a high level of detail and co-ordinate with building project contributors. Streamline the engineering design process with Revit. Use a single model to enhance the communication of design intent, before construction begins. Conduct simulations and interference detection earlier in the design process. Use conceptual energy analysis data for engineering-driven calculations. Design, model and document building systems in the context of a full building information model, including architectural and structural components. Model for MEP fabrication with tools that automate the fabrication model layout. Prepare a model for detailed co-ordination of fabrication and installation. Revit helps team improve accuracy, and speed delivery.Starting Price: $1,503 per year -
11
MechaniCalc
MechaniCalc
MechaniCalc, developed by MechaniCalc, Inc., is a suite of web-based calculators focused on machine design and structural analysis. These calculators perform analysis with a level of detail and comprehensiveness that would be expected in industry while also being intuitive and accessible. Use these calculators to move through design and analysis cycles more quickly and with greater confidence. We provide a comprehensive suite of calculators designed to automate mechanical engineering design and analysis. Each calculator comes with thorough documentation giving instructions on use as well as validation cases to show how the results of the calculators stack up against textbook solutions to example problems. We provide detailed reference material on mechanical engineering subjects as well as the methodology behind the calculators. Unrestricted access to all calculators and other content on the site. Ability to create new materials and cross-sections for use in the calculators.Starting Price: $9.99 per month -
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Simright
Simright
Simright Simulator can import a CAD model, setup and execute the structural analysis in web browser. It is designed to be very easy to use. Even you have no experience about CAE analysis, you can complete a simulation quickly. Simright Simulator can help you solve complex structural problem in many different industries online. The CAE technology can greatly reduce costs of physical experiments and help you to make wiser decisions. -
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GRAITEC Advance Design
GRAITEC
Advance Design is a mature and easy to use FEM Structural Analysis solution dedicated to structural engineers operating in a BIM environment. It fully designs any type of structure, with any kind of loads, mixing concrete, timber and steel members. It includes major code standards (Eurocodes / North American). Advance Design provides an outstanding BIM experience. It enables intelligent model-based workflows for Engineers and construction professionals. Advance Design acts as a BIM platform and guarantees the continuity of geometric and analytical data through model transfers all along the design cycle. Analysis results are also stored in the Digital Model and are part of the BIM process. For instance, they can be used to start a rebar design or a steel connection process directly from Revit. These options open new disruptive opportunities. Powerful, Easy to use and operate, fully compliant with Revit®. Supported by a strong team of experts. Flexible licensing model. -
14
Tekla Structural Designer
Tekla Software
Seamlessly combine design & analysis into one easy and efficient single model-based process. Our simple, integrated design & analysis software enables engineers to deliver safe, effective, and rationalized design more quickly, regardless of structural material. Try it for yourself and revolutionize the way you work today! Tekla Structural Designer is software that gives engineers the power to analyze and design buildings efficiently and profitably. Fully automated and packed with many unique features for optimized concrete and steel design, Tekla Structural Designer helps engineering businesses to win more work and maximize profits. From the quick comparison of alternative design schemes through to cost-effective change management and seamless BIM collaboration, Tekla Structural Designer can transform your business. Achieve faster design times and maximize profitability. Because you are creating a single model with a single data set, BIM integration is smooth and effective. -
15
ProSteel
Bentley
With ProSteel software you can efficiently create accurate 3D models for structural steel, metal work, and steel assemblies. You can then quickly generate design drawings, fabrication details, and schedules that automatically update whenever the 3D model changes. Additionally, detailed output to CNC machines automates the steel fabrication process. ProSteel fully supports your construction and planning tasks for structural steel and metal work in a 3D modeling environment. Working with AutoCAD or MicroStation, you get an intuitive and integrated multi-material modeler perfectly suited to layout complex structures, produce shop drawings, assemble all your connections, and manage your bills of materials. Quickly extract 2D drawings that automatically update when the 3D model changes. Easily exchange information with other disciplines thanks to interoperability with other Bentley and third-party applications.Starting Price: $4,193 per year -
16
SolidFEA
BIMWERX
SolidFEA is our innovative solid finite element analysis tool, designed to make advanced structural engineering design both accessible and affordable. Powered by the Calculix engine, it offers detailed sub-model analysis with lower cost and hardware requirements than competitors like Abaqus. Ideal for complex engineering challenges, including steel connections and bridge engineering, SolidFEA democratizes specialty software with ease of use and IFC file format compatibility, complementing our GenFEA software for comprehensive structural analysis. SolidFEA marks a transformative step in structural engineering design, bridging the gap that has long existed due to the prohibitive costs, complex learning curves, and high-end computing requirements associated with solid finite element analysis (FEA). Designed for ease of use, it supports IFC file format imports, making it a seamless addition to engineering workflows. -
17
GenFEA
BIMWERX
GenFEA stands as a testament to our dedication and enthusiasm, born from years of meticulous development and research. This 'passion project' is now set to revolutionize the industry, thanks to its AI-enhanced features that bring state-of-the-art technological advancements to the global market. With GenFEA, we are poised to make a significant impact, offering groundbreaking solutions that are ready to meet the challenges and demands of the international AEC landscape. Structural engineering software has long been characterized by its steep price tags, steep learning curves, and a noticeable lag in integrating modern technological advancements. By leveraging the latest in artificial intelligence, offering an intuitive user experience, and ensuring affordability, GenFEA is dedicated to making advanced structural analysis and design tools accessible, user-friendly, and in step with the cutting-edge technologies that define our era. -
18
Altair SimSolid
Altair
By performing structural analyses on fully featured CAD assemblies within minutes, SimSolid is the game-changing simulation technology for designers, engineers, and analysts. It eliminates geometry preparation and meshing: the two most time-consuming, expertise-extensive and error-prone tasks performed in a conventional structural simulation. Multiple design scenarios can be simulated quickly under real-life conditions. Early CAD models, in any common format, can be used. SimSolid tolerance of imprecise geometry means that, unlike CAD-embedded simulation tools, there is no need to simplify complex geometries before analyzing designs. SimSolid supports all typical connections (bolt/nut, bonded, welds, rivets, sliding) and analysis of linear static, modal, thermal properties, along with more complex coupled, nonlinear, transient dynamic effects. -
19
SwiftComp
AnalySwift
SwiftComp is a revolutionary multiscale, multiphysics composite simulation code that quickly and easily delivers the accuracy of 3D FEA at the efficiency of simple engineering models. In doing so, SwiftComp reduces barriers for engineers by enabling them to model composites as easily as metals using conventional structural elements in their FEA codes (without losing accuracy while capturing all the microstructural details). SwiftComp provides unified modeling for 1D (beams), 2D (plates/shells), or 3D structures, calculating all the effective properties. Use SwiftComp either independently for virtual testing of composites or as a plug-in to power your conventional structural tools with high-fidelity composites modeling. SwiftComp can compute the best structural model for use in macroscopic structural analysis, as well as perform dehomogenization to compute the pointwise stresses in the microstructure. SwiftComp directly interfaces with ABAQUS, ANSYS. -
20
VABS
AnalySwift
VABS is a popular general-purpose cross-sectional analysis tool for quickly and easily computing beam properties and recovering 3D fields of composite beams, including helicopter and wind turbine blades. It is the only tool capable of rigorously decoupling an original 3D slender solid with complex microstructure into a simple engineering beam model. AnalySwift’s roots are in the aerospace industry, where its tools have been used for composite beams (helicopter rotor blades, propellers, high aspect ratio wings, wing section design), plates/shells, and 3D structures. Used for several years in the wind turbine industry, VABS delivers rapid, rigorous results when modeling wind turbine blades. SwiftComp provides additional solutions for plates/shells, and 3D structures manufactured from composites. As the automobile industry adopts a higher use of composites, opportunities increase to leverage SwiftComp and VABS to model a wide variety of structures, including beams, plates, shells, etc. -
21
Digimat
e-Xstream engineering
e-Xstream engineering develops and commercializes the Digimat suite of software, a state-of-the-art multi-scale material modeling technology that speeds up the development process for composite materials and structures. Digimat is a core technology of 10xICME Solution and is used to perform detailed analyses of materials on the microscopic level and to derive micromechanical material models suited for multi-scale coupling of the micro- and macroscopic level. Digimat material models provide the means to combine processing simulation with structural FEA. This means to move towards more predictive simulation by taking into account the influence of processing conditions on the performance of the finally produced part. As an efficient and predictive tool Digimat helps its users to design and manufacture innovative composite materials and parts with great efficiency in time and costs. -
22
SOFiCAD
SOFiSTiK
Creation of formwork-, position- and shop drawings. Contains all functionalities and elements required for structural design drawings such as associative dimensioning, level marks, hatching, symbols, etc. Steel bar and mesh layout for any reinforcing situation. Smooth integration in AutoCAD, flexible settings for office standards using styles, direct generation of the schedule, user-defined shapes, export of existing reinforcement for calculation according theory 2nd order, polygonal mesh layout, macros to create parametric members (For Macros Module Detailing is required). Check, Production and layout plans for BAMTEC tailored reinforcement carpets. Fully automatic creation of carpets including all required drawings within one file, subsequent arrangement of areas, extensive editing functions, additional areas with different options. (As-value or diameter/number of bars)Starting Price: $90 per user per month -
23
Structural Engineering Library
ENERCALC
Structural and civil engineers are under tremendous pressure these days. You're expected to do more with less - and do it faster - all while creating the same safe, budget-friendly, code-compliant designs you've always created. So much pressure! Tighter budgets, shorter timelines, and ever-changing code requirements. Then clients ask for design changes at the same price! Structural Engineers are highly skilled, our work is exacting and we are liable for our mistakes. Competitive pressure and heavier workloads take their toll on highly technical, detailed work. Where can I get relief? Work more? Hire help? Take on fewer projects? You are asking yourself "How do I increase my high quality engineering designs without overworking my team or losing profits by excess hiring?" The Structural Engineering Library (SEL). The industry's most complete, well proven, widely used integrated system for creating daily structural engineering calculations. -
24
OpenBuildings Designer
Bentley Systems
OpenBuildings Designer (formerly AECOsim Building Designer), Bentley’s multi-discipline building information modeling (BIM). Explore, design, and deliver innovative buildings faster. Design, analyze, document, and visualize buildings of any size, form, and complexity. Effectively communicate design intent and bridge barriers between building disciplines and geographically distributed teams. OpenBuildings Designer (formerly AECOsim Building Designer) provides building information modeling (BIM) advancements so you can deliver buildings faster and with greater confidence – confidence in your design, workflow, capabilities, and deliverables. Increase collaboration among architects, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers with a shared set of tools and workflows. Integrate information you have from multiple formats and easily work on projects of any size. Clearly communicate your design intent with reliable deliverables that you can easily customize. -
25
AutoPIPE
Bentley
AutoPIPE provides you with a comprehensive and advanced software tool specializing in pipe stress analysis. Increase your productivity and improve quality control with an intuitive modeling environment and advanced analysis capabilities. Ensure efficient workflows between pipe stress engineers, structural engineers, and CAD designers through interoperability with leading plant design applications. AutoPIPE includes special features for advanced buried pipeline analysis, operational (hot) clash detection, wave loading, fluid transients, and FRP/GRP or plastic pipe, as well as time-saving integration with other Bentley and third-party applications such as OpenPlant, AutoPLANT, PlantSpace, Hexagon PDS and SmartPlant, Autodesk Plant 3D, and Aveva E3D Design. AutoPIPE automatically determines the optimal pipe support locations to satisfy your design requirements with the most cost-effective solution, without sacrificing quality or safety. -
26
MAXSURF
Bentley Systems
Create initial hull designs and assess stability of existing vessels more quickly with integrated naval architecture capabilities in MAXSURF. Streamline hull optimization with easy-to-use tools like hull design, stability and strength analysis, resistance and motions prediction and initial structural design and structural strength analysis. Visualize and optimize vessel designs with the complete set of naval architecture tools in MAXSURF. Create fair hull shapes, comply with stability requirements, minimize power requirements, and ensure crew and passenger comfort in varying sea states. Minimize structural weight while ensuring scantling compliance through initial modeling and stress analysis of beam and plate structures. MAXSURF helps you redefine design excellence for any size vessel. Design, analyze, and optimize all types of marine vessels. Free your creativity with fast and convenient modeling of complex vessels using dynamically trimmed 3D NURB surfaces. -
27
OpenBridge Designer
Bentley Systems
Better bridges beginning to end. OpenBridge Designer features advanced interoperability, allowing access to Bentley’s civil application data, as well as a seamless connection to Bentley’s bridge design and analysis applications. Project team members can take the conceptual model from OpenBridge Modeler into the design stage and move through the workflow by performing analysis and design including evaluation of construction work stages using Bentley’s LEAP applications and RM Bridge, OpenRoads Designer, ProStructures, ProjectWise, and other applications. With all these capabilities in one application, you’ll accelerate performance, produce intelligent models through intuitive capabilities for 3D parametric bridge modeling, and improve project deliverables with intelligent data management and automated drawing production that revolutionizes the bridge delivery process. OpenBridge Modeler is a 3D parametric modeling software for bridges. -
28
FrameWorks Plus
Hexagon PPM
FrameWorks® Plus is a powerful structural modeling and drawing tool that supports your total workflow: drawing, modeling, analysis and reporting. Add value to your modeling process by integrating structural tasks with the plant creation process. Because it integrates with third-party analytical and steel detailing software, as well as with other Hexagon plant design software, FrameWorks Plus supports all parts of the structural engineering workflow to keep your data accurate and current. FrameWorks Plus fully supports PDS. You can create structural models of plants and, through an interface to PDS, share the most recent project data across your workplace and around the world. FrameWorks Plus integrates with the engineering and construction workflow. More than just a CAD program, FrameWorks Plus provides intelligent graphics that support easy modeling, analysis and reporting. -
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ProtaDetails
Prota Software
ProtaDetails is revolutionary system for automatically creating and organising all your structural concrete detail drawings in one go. Save hours of drafting time by seamlessly extracting design details from ProtaStructure and automatically arranging them onto your company drawing sheets. Use focused CAD editing and detailing capabilities tailored to structural engineering to fine tune your drawing production. Make informed design choices with full quantities extraction to value engineer projects and offer improved design services to clients. Handle changes efficiently by seamlessly updating project design changes from ProtaStructure. Use ProtaDetails growing library of component macros to instantly design and detail common project elements including retaining walls, stairs, piles and foundations. Save hours of drafting time, deliver projects faster, be more productive and profitable with ProtaDetails. -
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ProtaSteel
Prota Software
ProtaSteel allows structural engineers and detailers to perform automated steel connection design and produce high quality steel detail drawings in minutes. Take models designed in ProtaStructure directly into ProtaSteel and save hours with automated design of a comprehensive range of bolted and welded steel connections of your choice. Visualize and coordinate your models in 3D, add ancillary steelwork, and fully quantify and value engineer your projects. Significantly reduce design and detailing time by automatically producing high quality engineering drawings for all steelwork and connection details. Increase your design teams productivity and business project profitability. Save valuable project management time by coordinating your projects with other leading BIM platforms including Tekla Structures and Revit.