calc4fem

Calc4fem

calc4fem is an open-source finite element analysis calculator and solver for various physics and engineering applications. It features a basic GUI and scripting functionality to set up problems, mesh geometries, assign loads and boundary conditions, solve, and view results.
calc4fem image
fea solver meshing physics engineering

calc4fem: Open-Source Finite Element Analysis Calculator

calc4fem is an open-source finite element analysis calculator and solver for various physics and engineering applications, featuring a basic GUI and scripting functionality.

What is Calc4fem?

calc4fem is an open-source, cross-platform finite element analysis program focused on providing core FEA functionality for common engineering applications. It features a basic graphical user interface for pre- and post-processing along with Python scripting capabilities for automating workflows.

Some of the key capabilities and features of calc4fem include:

  • Linear static, modal, harmonic, and transient analysis for structural mechanics and heat transfer.
  • Common element types such as trusses, beams, shells, membranes, plane stress/strain, axisymmetric, and 3D solids.
  • Various material models including linear elastic, hyperelastic, plasticity, and thermal conduction.
  • Handles triangles, quadrilaterals, tetrahedrals, wedges, and hexahedral mesh elements.
  • Prescribed boundary conditions and applied loads including forces, pressures, temperatures, and enforced displacements.
  • Automated geometry and meshing modules powered by Gmsh.
  • Visualization of undeformed meshes, deformed solutions, contour plots, animated mode shapes, and X-Y graphs.
  • Scripting interface for complete control over model definition, solution, and results post-processing.
  • File importing/exporting for integrating with CAD and CAE workflows.
  • Open source (LGPL) allowing customization and integration into proprietary programs.

While having fewer features than commercial codes, calc4fem provides a lightweight, hackable, and extensible platform for common finite element modeling needs for research and industry applications.

Calc4fem Features

Features

  1. Open-source finite element analysis software
  2. Graphical user interface for pre-processing
  3. Built-in meshing capabilities
  4. Solvers for structural, thermal, CFD and other physics
  5. Post-processing and visualization of results
  6. Scripting interface for automation

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Cross-platform compatibility

Active development community

Capable of solving a variety of engineering problems

Customizable and extensible via scripts

Cons

Limited pre- and post-processing capabilities compared to commercial software

Steep learning curve

Limited documentation and support resources

Scripting requires programming knowledge


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