Femap
Serious FE pre- and post-processing, independent of any CAD system
Femap is a CAE environment focused on finite element modelling and post-processing on the Nastran solver — for analysts who handle complex models without wanting to be locked to a particular CAD platform.
Femap dates back to the 1980s and is still the primary pre/post-processor in many aerospace and heavy-industry analysis departments. Its defining trait is platform neutrality: you are not required to use a given CAD system. It reads a wide range of geometry and mesh formats, then lets you focus on idealisation, connections, loads and result assessment.
For teams with heavy analysis loads and mixed model sources, Femap’s geometry cleanup, mid-surface extraction, mesh control and post-processing are often more productive than a simulation module bolted onto a CAD tool — particularly on large assemblies with complex connection definitions.
Key capabilities
Fine-grained mesh control
From geometry cleanup and mid-surface extraction to hex and shell meshing, with detailed control at every step.
Platform neutral
Independent of any CAD system; imports many geometry and mesh formats, avoiding lock-in.
Deep Nastran support
Native NX Nastran solving across linear, nonlinear, dynamic and thermal analysis.
Professional post-processing
Contours, path plots, time histories and code checking suitable for engineering reports.
Automation and scripting
API and macro support to turn repeated analyses into standard procedures.
Large assembly handling
Display and selection optimised for big models — complex assemblies stay responsive.
What it delivers
- No CAD platform constraint — third-party models are accepted as they are
- Strong cleanup and mid-surface tools make thin-wall analysis efficient
- Seamless, fully supported pairing with NX Nastran
- Scriptable, so repeated analysis runs become one click
- Gentle learning curve for engineers with a mechanical background
Modules & components
Typical applications
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