Best Structural Engineering Software in the UK
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Compare the Top Structural Engineering Software in the UK as of March 2026
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What is Structural Engineering Software in the UK?
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 in the UK currently available using the table below. This list is updated regularly.
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1
MicroStation
Bentley Systems
MicroStation by Bentley Systems is the trusted computer-aided design (CAD) software built specifically for infrastructure design. It enables architects, engineers, and designers to create precise 2D and 3D drawings that bring complex projects to life—from bridges and highways to utilities and smart cities. With powerful tools for design, documentation, and visualization, MicroStation helps professionals deliver projects faster, more accurately, and with greater confidence. The software natively supports DGN, DWG, and point-cloud data, eliminating file conversion hassles and improving collaboration across teams. Its robust environment connects applications, data, and users to ensure seamless project delivery at any scale. MicroStation is the foundation of modern infrastructure design—reliable, interoperable, and built for professionals who build the world.Starting Price: $250 per month -
2
ActCAD Software
Jytra Technology Solutions
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,AutomotiveStarting Price: $249.00/one-time/user -
3
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 -
4
g-Viewer
Geomage
Geomage g-Viewer allows visualization and QC of different geophysical and seismic data. g-Viewer allows: - Load and QC Seg-Y files of any size - Load multiple Seg-Y files – 2D and 3D - Selection of active dataset from location map - Graphical representation of trace header(s) above seismogram view - Cross-plot any 3 trace headers (horizontal-vertical-color ) - Load of geometry from trace headers - Editing trace header scheme per each dataset - Selection and representation of CS/CR/CMP gathers picked from location map - Selection and representation of active trace from seismogram/location map - Editing text and bin headers - Auto-update feature allows to get new version whenever its available.Starting Price: $300/year/user -
5
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 -
6
Braceworks
Vectorworks
The Braceworks® add-on module for Vectorworks Spotlight provides design, production, and rigging professionals with an easy way to gauge the performance of temporary structures under load. This one-of-a-kind module helps ensure safety and compliance with engineering codes and standards, creating a completely integrated modeling, analysis, and documentation process in one interface. Regulatory requirements, such as the Eurocodes, and increasing requirements from venues, municipalities, and building owners, are making it necessary for event design, A/V, and rigging companies to produce load and structure calculations for sign off by structural engineers. Conduct static analyses and FEM analysis with results that display graphically on the model for easy reference. Automatically generate detailed calculation reports.Starting Price: $211 per month -
7
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 -
8
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 -
9
Fatigue Essentials
AppliedCAx
Fatigue Essentials is a desktop application used to efficiently conduct structural fatigue analysis. Fatigue Essentials provides a user-friendly tool for conducting stress-life analysis either using classical stress calculations or linked with FEMAP™ and using the finite element generated stresses. The program is structured to guide the user through the analysis by following a tree structure. General analysis options are selected following loads, materials, and spectrum branches. Within each branch are options for analysis variations or input methods. Analysis results are available on-screen to paste into a report and/or as a damage contour plot in FEMAP. Covers most engineering requirements. Classic mode with user input stresses. Professional mode (FEMAP-linked) with the ability to read nodal stresses and push back results in a damage contour plot. Option for either interactive input or file input for stresses and cycles.Starting Price: $695 one-time payment -
10
PowerPad
MasterSeries
MasterSeries PowerPad is a complete structural analysis and design suite. It is the ideal software choice for engineers who require a wide range of design capabilities at an extremely affordable price. By bundling lite versions of the core analysis and design programs, MasterSeries PowerPad delivers a wide range of well-established programs (not pro-forma's) at less than a third of their full version price. At the heart of PowerPad is our powerful MasterFrame analysis module. This integrates directly with our steel, concrete, composite, and timber design modules to give you a seamless, fully integrated, 3D analysis and design environment. PowerPad (Student Edition) is a free version of our commercial PowerPad Plus structural analysis and design software suite. PowerPad is not a set of proformas, but lite copies of our real programs bundled together. Simple steel, concrete, and timber beam designer. Analysis of beams, trusses, plane frames, grillages and space frames.Starting Price: $102.50 per month -
11
RISA-3D
RISA
Our user interface was created to be as easy to use as possible. Whether you’re creating geometry graphically in multiple views using advanced modeling tools or using spreadsheets to input data directly, RISA-3D has you covered. RISA-3D’s analysis and design features allow you to rapidly design structures of all types using a wide range of materials. Design buildings, bridges, tanks, culverts, and everything in between. Create reports with both graphical and numerical results including robust detailed output, giving you and your colleagues full confidence in your design. The latest user interface of RISA-3D was created with a structural engineers' workflow in mind. The familiar left-to-right, tab-by-tab ribbon approach, makes it effortless to progress through a model from conception to final design optimization by simply following the icon sequencing. Additionally, users have the ability to customize the interface so that their most used tools are available at all times.Starting Price: $1,970 per year -
12
FRILO
ALLPLAN
FRILO is a structural analysis and design suite for civil and structural engineers that delivers a wide range of calculation, verification, and modelling tools to assess the load-bearing capacity, stability, and serviceability of components and full structures in concrete, steel, timber, masonry, foundation, and geotechnical engineering according to Eurocodes and applicable standards. It is modular and includes specialized programs (for beams, columns, plates, foundations, soil mechanics, and more) that support component-oriented calculations with intuitive inputs and verifiable results, helping engineers handle everyday structural tasks efficiently and with clear documentation. FRILO integrates tools like BIM-Connector interfaces for importing analytical models from IFC/SAF formats, a Document Designer for generating standard-compliant reports, and continuous updates to standards, workflows, and material libraries.Starting Price: €244 per month -
13
MIDAS CIVIL NX
MIDAS IT
MIDAS CIVIL NX is a next-generation analysis and design program for bridges and civil engineering structures, offering powerful simulation tools and an enhanced user experience. It supports complex structural analysis including nonlinear behavior, moving loads, staged construction, seismic events, and advanced boundary conditions. The platform introduces automation through APIs, allowing engineers to generate models directly from Excel sheets and streamline repetitive tasks. Its redesigned interface provides an intuitive workspace that helps users navigate features more efficiently and maintain smooth workflows. CIVIL NX integrates seamlessly with the broader MIDAS collection, enabling data exchange across programs and supporting end-to-end civil engineering design processes. Backed by global adoption and continuous innovation, MIDAS CIVIL NX empowers engineering teams to achieve accurate, efficient, and reliable structural designs. -
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
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. -
16
Altair Inspire
Altair
Applied early in the product development lifecycle, Inspire accelerates the creation, optimization, and study of innovative, structurally efficient parts and assemblies through collaboration. Inspire's award winning user experience for geometry creation and modification can be learned in just a few hours, and delivers dependable Altair solver power. Structural analysis with the speed and accuracy of Altair® SimSolid®, as independently validated by NAFEMS, provides the ability to analyze large assemblies and complex parts. Dynamic motion simulation, including loads extraction, using the reliable multi-body systems analysis of Altair® MotionSolve®. The industry standard for structural efficiency, topology optimization by Altair® OptiStruct®, for the generative design of practical, viable, and manufacturable geometry. Inspire enables both simulation analysts and designers to perform what-if studies faster, easier, and above all earlier, encouraging collaboration. -
17
LIRA-SAPR
LIRALAND Group
LIRA-SAPR is comprehensive software package that benefits from BIM technology. The software is intended for analysis and design of building and mechanical engineering structures of different purposes. - Static (forces and displacements) and dynamic analyses - Selection and check for sections of steel and/or reinforced concrete (RC) structures - Preliminary drawings of steel structures as well as separate RC elementsStarting Price: €280/month -
18
MasterSeries
MasterSeries
MasterSeries is the UK's leading range of integrated structural analysis, design, drafting, and detailing software with over 10,000 users worldwide. From the industry-leading multi-material BIM-enabled modeling and design environment to a collection of powerful stand-alone modules, MasterSeries features the most extensive range of technically advanced structural engineering software you'll find under one roof. For you, this means you get more done in one package, avoiding the need to swap between different incompatible software and enter the same data multiple times. No two businesses are the same, so why should their software be? That's why the MasterSeries product range is modular in nature, providing an extremely flexible and scalable software solution. In this way you aren't forced to buy a costly single large product, perhaps with many features you don't need. You simply combine the modules you need to create the ideal software solution to meet the demands of your business. -
19
Altair S-FRAME
Altair
With S-FRAME, users can model, analyze, and design any structure regardless of its geometric complexity, material type, loading conditions, nonlinear effects, or design code requirements. S-FRAME’s automated framework generators build models quickly and import models with BIM and DXF import links, and users can maximize productivity with integrated concrete and steel design tools for design, optimization, code compliance, and report generation. With S-FRAME, users can quickly define structures using modeling automation to generate regular framework structures, and standard or custom trusses, and use clone tools to replicate all or part of the model. Additionally, users can save modeling time by importing existing BIM and DXF models. S-FRAME’s advanced meshing tools create the finite element mesh, giving users the power to generate detailed analysis results in their specific areas of interest. Users can explore those areas of interest by easily converting members to multi-shell models. -
20
GPT GES
GPT
Block H125 mainly develops Qingshankou oil layer. The top structure of the Qing 1st sublayer is a broken nose structure blocked by reverse normal faults. The reservoir type is a layered lithological structure reservoir. The current injection-production scale is an encryption five-point well pattern, including 27 injection wells and 38 production wells. The main target layers in the north of Block H125 are delta front deposits. The main microfacies types of each sublayer are bars. Reservoir geological modeling technology is mainly divided into two major workflows structural modeling and property modeling. The property modeling includes sedimentary facies modeling, porosity modeling, permeability modeling, oil saturation modeling, and NTG modeling. In geological modeling, the first step is to use the well header and well picks to establish a structural model and to set the increment in I and J direction to control the grid quality and well pattern. -
21
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. -
22
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. -
23
IDEA StatiCa
IDEA StatiCa
IDEA StatiCa 25.0 is a world-leading structural design software that enables engineers to model, analyze, and code-check steel connections, concrete D-regions, and anchoring with unprecedented speed and accuracy. It lets you build and verify anchors or cast-in plates with U-, L-, or I-shaped rebars in custom foundations using a 3D CBFEM engine; design and fully check concrete walls and D-regions with ULS/SLS reporting; and create everything from simple bolted or welded beam-to-column connections to complex moment connections using over 250 predefined templates and parametric design workflows. Seamless BIM integration and automated links with major CAD and FEA tools ensure data synchronization, while its patented Component-Based Finite Element Model delivers true structural behavior, not approximations. Version 25.0 expands anchoring capabilities, streamlines initial connection setups, and evolves the checkbot app into an interactive design tool. -
24
CalcSteel
CalcSteel
CalcSteel is a web-based structural steel design and analysis platform built to make professional engineering tools affordable and accessible. It features a full 3D browser editor that allows engineers to model structures directly online without downloads or installations. The platform includes a 6 DOF FEM solver and design verification according to major international standards such as AISC 360, Eurocode 3, NBR 8800, AS 4100, and IS 800. With over 640 steel profiles available, users can quickly assign sections and loads to their structural models. CalcSteel enables engineers to analyze, verify, and generate professional documentation and PDF drawings within minutes. Unlike traditional structural software that costs thousands per year, CalcSteel offers a free tier and paid plans starting at accessible monthly pricing. Designed for structural engineers, fabricators, firms, and students, it provides professional-grade tools without enterprise-level costs.Starting Price: $9/month -
25
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. -
26
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. -
27
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. -
28
FloCAD
C&R Technologies
FloCAD® is a fluid dynamics software add-on module for Thermal Desktop®, together they provide a complete thermohydraulic software tool for fully integrated fluid flow and heat transfer analysis. With FloCAD, the mechanics of building fluid flow models is very similar to that of building thermal models, with many of the commands applicable to both types of models. FloCAD models can be free-form (non-geometric), sketchpad style flow network modeling for abstraction and simplification, or they can be geometry-based by including objects such as pipe centerlines and cross-sections, complexly shaped vessels, or convection to finite difference of finite element representations of thermal structures. As a generalized pipe flow software tool, FloCAD captures the pressure drops in a piping network due to bends, valves, tees, changes in flow area, etc. -
29
PROFIS Engineering Suite
Hilti
Hilti PROFIS Engineering Suite is a user-friendly, cloud-based software that makes designing structural connections faster and easier in construction projects with time saving productivity features. Design connections for multiple base materials and applications. Design anchors in multiple base materials such as concrete, masonry, and concrete over metal. Not just for anchors, PROFIS Engineering designs post-installed rebar, base plates, and diaphragm shear fasteners for metal deck attachments. Help save time with productivity features such as Smart Design anchor layout, import loads, running multiple load combinations and developing design templates. New to PROFIS Engineering? Sign up for a free 30-day trial of the premium version or try the free standard version. -
30
Vertex BD
Argos Systems
Vertex BD is a BIM software for medium to large sized residential builders. Architectural and structural drawing sets, fabrication drawings, material reports, manufacturing data, and marketing renderings are generated all from one building model. Vertex BD automates the process of generating lot specific drawing sets, saving production home builders countless hours of having to recreate drawings for each customer's choice of house options. Vertex BD is primarily used as panel prefab software by component manufacturers and panelizers to automate the process of generating wall and floor panel fabrication drawings, structural layouts, cut lists, and other material reports. By automating these processes, manufacturers are saving a considerable amount of design, drafting and estimation time while minimizing errors at the construction site. Available for wood and cold-formed steel construction.Starting Price: $380 per month
