Dlubal RFEM
Dlubal RFEM is a powerful 3D finite element analysis software that allows engineers to model, analyze, and design complex structures consisting of members, surfaces, and solids.
SimFlow
SimFlow is a comprehensive computational fluid dynamics software that provides an OpenFOAM-based GUI for simulating complex fluid flows, heat transfer, and multiphase interactions across engineering disciplines.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Dlubal RFEM | SimFlow |
|---|---|---|
| Website | dlubal.com | sim-flow.com |
| Pricing Model | Custom | Freemium |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 90 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1987 | 2013 |
| Headquarters | Tiefenbach, Germany | Warsaw, Poland |
Overview
Dlubal RFEM
RFEM is a versatile finite element analysis (FEA) program that helps you handle structural engineering projects of any complexity. You can model diverse structures including buildings, bridges, towers, and industrial plants using a combination of members, surfaces, and solid elements. The software provides a modular system where you start with the base program and add specific design modules for materials like steel, concrete, timber, or glass as your project requires.
You can perform linear and non-linear calculations, stability analysis, and dynamic investigations within a unified graphical interface. The platform integrates into your existing BIM workflows, allowing you to synchronize data with Revit, Tekla Structures, and AutoCAD. Whether you are designing a simple beam or a massive stadium, you can verify your results against international standards and generate professional, verifiable documentation for your clients.
SimFlow
SimFlow is a powerful computational fluid dynamics (CFD) platform that brings the capabilities of OpenFOAM to a user-friendly graphical interface. You can handle complex engineering challenges including compressible and incompressible flows, heat transfer, and chemical reactions without writing code. It allows you to import geometry directly from CAD software, create high-quality meshes, and monitor simulations in real-time to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
Whether you are designing automotive components or optimizing HVAC systems, the platform provides the tools to visualize flow patterns and pressure distributions effectively. You can run simulations on your local machine or scale up to high-performance computing clusters for massive datasets. It is designed for engineering professionals and researchers who need the precision of open-source solvers combined with the speed of a modern, intuitive workflow.
Overview
Dlubal RFEM Features
- 3D Finite Element Modeling Create complex models using members, surfaces, and solids in a single environment to simulate real-world structural behavior.
- Modular Design System Customize your workspace by adding specific modules for steel, concrete, or timber design based on your project needs.
- BIM Integration Exchange data with Revit, Tekla, and Rhino to keep your structural models synchronized with the architectural design.
- Non-linear Analysis Perform advanced calculations for large deformations, cable structures, and material non-linearity to ensure structural safety.
- Automatic Mesh Generation Generate high-quality finite element meshes automatically for surfaces and solids to get accurate results with less manual effort.
- Professional Documentation Create detailed printout reports with graphics and tables that update automatically when you change your model.
SimFlow Features
- Mesh Generation. Create high-quality hex-dominant meshes automatically for complex geometries using the integrated snappyHexMesh and cfMesh tools.
- Multiphase Flow. Simulate interactions between different fluids, such as water and air, to predict cavitation, splashing, or free-surface movements.
- Heat Transfer. Analyze conduction, convection, and radiation within your designs to optimize cooling systems and thermal management strategies.
- Real-time Monitoring. Track residuals and physical quantities during the calculation process to catch errors early and save valuable computing time.
- Parallel Processing. Speed up your simulations by distributing the workload across multiple CPU cores with seamless MPI support.
- Post-processing. Visualize your results with integrated ParaView support to create stunning animations and detailed vector plots of fluid behavior.
Pricing Comparison
Dlubal RFEM Pricing
SimFlow Pricing
- Limit of 200,000 nodes
- All physical models included
- Parallel processing support
- Standard mesh tools
- Community support access
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Unlimited mesh nodes
- Priority technical support
- Perpetual license options
- Advanced geometry handling
- Full cluster compatibility
Pros & Cons
Dlubal RFEM
Pros
- Highly flexible modular system saves money on unused features
- Exceptional technical support from qualified structural engineers
- Intuitive graphical interface compared to other FEA packages
- Robust integration with popular BIM and CAD software
- Extensive library of international design codes and standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced non-linear modules
- Initial setup and module selection can be complex
- High hardware requirements for large-scale solid modeling
SimFlow
Pros
- Intuitive GUI makes OpenFOAM accessible to beginners
- Excellent mesh generation capabilities for complex parts
- Free version is highly functional for small projects
- Supports a wide range of physical solvers
- Regular updates keep the software stable and modern
Cons
- Commercial licenses require a custom quote
- Learning curve remains steep for CFD theory
- Hardware requirements are high for large meshes