List of finite element software packages

This is a list of software packages that implement the finite element method for solving partial differential equations or aid in the pre- and post-processing of finite element models.

Free/Open source

Name	Description	License	Operating System
CalculiX	It is an Open Source FEA project. The solver uses a partially compatible ABAQUS file format. The pre/post-processor generates input data for many FEA and CFD applications	GNU GPL	GNU/Linux, Windows
Code Aster	is an Open Source software package for Civil and Structural Engineering finite element analysis and numeric simulation in structural mechanics which is written in Python and Fortran	GNU GPL	GNU/Linux, FreeBSD
DUNE	Distributed and Unified Numerics Environment, written in C++	GPL Version 2 with Run-Time Exception	GNU/Linux, Unix, Mac OS X

• Elmer FEM solver: Open source multiphysical simulation software developed by Finnish Ministry of Education's CSC, written primarily in Fortran (written in Fortran90, C and C++)
• FEBio, Finite Elements for Biomechanics
• FEniCS Project: a LGPL-licensed software package developed by American and European researchers
• FreeFem++: a GPL software for rapid testing and finite element simulations. The problem is defined in terms of its variational formulation.
• Hermes Project: Modular C/C++ library for rapid development of space- and space-time adaptive hp-FEM solvers.
• Impact: Dynamic Finite Element Program Suite, for dynamic events like crashes, written in Java, GNU license
• OOFEM: Object Oriented Finite EleMent solver, written in C++, GPL v2 license
• OpenFOAM (Field Operation And Manipulation). Originally for CFD only, but now includes finite element analysis through tetrahedral decomposition of arbitrary grids.
• OpenSees is an Open System for Earthquake Engineering Simulation
• THERM is a two dimensional heat transfer modeling software packaged developed by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory for building systems analysis.
• Z88: FEM-software available for Windows and Linux/UNIX, written in C, GPL license

Proprietary/Commercial

• Abaqus: Franco-American software from SIMULIA, owned by Dassault Systemes.
• ADAPT: ADAPT-Builder software is an advanced 3D FEM tool for design and investigation of post-tensioned and conventionally reinforced concrete floor systems and foundations. Developed in USA, used worldwide with domestic and international codes. www.adaptsoft.com
• ADINA: finite element software developed and distributed worldwide by ADINA R&D, Inc.
• Advance Design: BIM software for FEM structural analysis, including international design eurocodes, a solution developed by GRAITEC.
• Altair HyperWorks: A full CAE pre-processing and post-processing suite.
• ANSA: An advanced CAE pre-processing software for complete model build up.
• ANSYS: American software
• AutoForm: Swiss origin German software for Sheet metal forming process chain
• COMSOL Multiphysics COMSOL Multiphysics Finite Element Analysis Software formerly Femlab
• Diffpack Software for finite element analysis and partial differential equations
• Extreme Loading for Structures: Software made by Applied Science International for non-linear dynamic structural analysis, progressive collapse, blast, seismic, impact and other loading.
• FEFLOW: simulates groundwater flow, mass transfer and heat transfer in porous media
• Femap, Siemens PLM Software: A pre and post processor for Windowsfemdesigner.com
• FEMtools, Dynamic Design Solutions: A toolbox for static and dynamic simulation, verification, validation and updating of finite element models. Includes also modules for structural optimization and for obtaining experimental reference data.
• Flexcom, Finite element package used in the offshore oil and gas industry. Developed by MCS Kenny.
• FlexPDE
• HydroGeoSphere: A 3D control-volume finite element hydrologic model, simulating surface and subsurface water flow and solute and thermal energy transport
• HyperSizer, design software specializing in composite materials; integrates with other software
• JMAG, Japanese software
• LS-DYNA, LSTC - Livermore Software Technology Corporation
• LUSAS: UK Software
• MADYMO: TASS - TNO Automotive Safety Solutions
• Nastran: American software, from MSC Software
• NEi Fusion, NEi Software: 3D CAD modeler + Nastran FEA
• NEi Nastran, NEi Software: General purpose Finite Element Analysis
• NEi Works: Embedded Nastran for SolidWorks users
• PZFlex: American software for wave propagation and piezoelectric devices
• Quickfield : Physics simulating software
• Radioss: A linear and nonlinear solver owned by Altair Engineering
• Range Software: Multiphysics simulation software
• SAMCEF: CAE package developed by the Belgian company
• SAP2000: American software
• SESAM: Norwegian software, developed by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) for the offshore and maritime industries.
• STRAND7: Developed in Sydney Australia by Strand7 Pty. Ltd. Marketed as Straus7 in Europe.
• StressCheck developed by ESRD, Inc (USA) emphasizing solution accuracy by utilizing high order elements
• Vflo: Physics-based distributed hydrologic modeling software, developed by Vieux & Associates, Inc.

External links

• Public Domain FE Programs listed by Ian MacPhedran