⚙️Macros & API(32)

1

CodeStack by Xarial

Massive library of SOLIDWORKS API examples, macros, and tutorials in VBA, C#, and VB.NET

https://www.codestack.net/

2

CAD+ Toolset

Open-source tool that adds custom toolbars, batch export, property automation to SolidWorks

https://github.com/xarial/cad-plus

3

xCAD.NET Framework

Framework for building SOLIDWORKS add-ins and stand-alone apps with minimal boilerplate

https://github.com/xarial/xcad

4

SolidDNA

Simplified C# framework for building SOLIDWORKS add-ins quickly

https://github.com/CAD-Booster/SolidDNA

5

SolidWorks Lookup

Interactive API exploration tool to browse SolidWorks object properties in real time

https://github.com/weianweigan/SolidWorksLookup

6

Config2STL Macro

VBA macro to batch export all configurations of a part/assembly to STL files

https://github.com/daanv98/solidworks-config2stl

7

Bounding Box Automation

Automates bounding box creation for parts and sub-assemblies for BOM generation

https://github.com/arslnakin/Bounding_Box_Automation_For_SW

8

3D Curve Generator

Generate and visualize 3D clothoid curves across SolidWorks, Python, and Excel

https://github.com/ogunerkutay/SolidWorks-3D-Curve-Generator

9

Free OBJ Exporter

Macro to export SolidWorks models as .obj files with .mtl material files

https://github.com/Aeroanion/Free-Solidworks-OBJ-Exporter

10

DuSwToglTF

Export SolidWorks models to glTF/GLB format for web 3D viewing

https://github.com/weianweigan/DuSwToglTF

11

pySolidWorks

Python routines to interact with SolidWorks — modify dimensions, export DXF, run FEA

https://github.com/mklanac/pySolidWorks

12

SWToolkit

SolidWorks toolkit for Python automation

https://github.com/Glutenberg/swtoolkit

13

ExportURDF

Convert SolidWorks CAD assemblies to URDF files for robotics simulation

https://github.com/david-dorf/ExportURDF

14

CADSharp Macro Library

Professional SOLIDWORKS API training with free macro examples and video tutorials

https://www.cadsharp.com/

15

BlueByte Mastering SW API

SOLIDWORKS API training courses and free PDM plugins

https://bluebyte.biz/

16

RealViewOn

Enable RealView graphics on unsupported graphics cards in SolidWorks

https://github.com/ianalexis/RealViewOn

17

SW API Help Files

Official SOLIDWORKS API programming guide and reference

https://help.solidworks.com/2025/english/api/sldworksapiprogguide/Welcome.htm

18

PDMShell

Command-line tool for SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional automation

https://pdmpublisher.com/

114

pySwX

Python wrapper for the SolidWorks API — automate modeling tasks from Python

https://github.com/deloarts/pyswx

115

pySwTools

Python tools to improve SolidWorks usage — batch operations and automation

https://github.com/ldevillez/pySwTools

116

Assem2DXF

Macro that converts all sheet metal parts in an assembly to flat pattern DXF files

https://github.com/Johanss-on/Assem2DXF

117

MeasureXForm Macro

Calculate transformation matrices between coordinate systems in SolidWorks

https://github.com/Aeroanion/MeasureXForm-Solidworks-Macro

119

PMPageControl

WPF controls for SolidWorks Property Manager Pages

https://github.com/weianweigan/PMPageControl

120

Relative Transform Macro

Create coordinate frames from 4×4 transforms and calculate relative transforms

https://github.com/katelynlee/solidworks_relative_transform_macro

121

xCAD Examples

Collection of SOLIDWORKS API add-in examples built with xCAD.NET framework

https://github.com/xarial/xcad-examples

122

SwEx.AddIn

Framework simplifying SOLIDWORKS add-in development in C#

https://github.com/codestackdev/swex-addin

123

SldWorks TestRunner

Unit test runner for SolidWorks API code — test macros and add-ins

https://github.com/weianweigan/SldWorks.TestRunner

124

CP_Search

SolidWorks tool to search custom properties across all configurations

https://github.com/ylmzmst/CP_Search

125

SolidVentor

SolidWorks UI configuration preset for users coming from Autodesk Inventor

https://github.com/CKraft11/SolidVentor

126

SW API Macro Examples (AngelSix)

Video tutorial series on SolidWorks API programming in C#

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrW43fNmjaQVMN1-lsB29ECnHRlA4ebYn

127

SolidWorks VBA Snippets by Matt

Collection of handy VBA macros for common SolidWorks tasks

https://github.com/matt-the-wizard/solidworks-macros

271

CadQuery

Python-based parametric CAD scripting — pair with AI code assistants for automated part generation

https://github.com/CadQuery/cadquery

🧮Calculators(30)

19

The Engineering Toolbox

Encyclopedic collection of calculators, charts, and reference data for all engineering

https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/

20

MechaniCalc

Free online calculators for bolted joints, beams, columns, shafts, and more

https://mechanicalc.com/

21

Omnicalculator Engineering

500+ physics and engineering calculators — stress, strain, fluid dynamics, etc.

https://www.omnicalculator.com/physics

22

eFatigue

Online fatigue analysis calculators — S-N curves, strain-life, crack growth

https://www.efatigue.com/

23

MatWeb

Searchable database of 100,000+ material datasheets with properties

https://www.matweb.com/

24

Bolt Science Torque Calculator

Calculate bolt torque, preload, and clamp force with friction coefficients

https://www.boltscience.com/pages/calculator.htm

25

Engineers Edge

Engineering reference, calculators, and design data for mechanical engineers

https://www.engineersedge.com/

26

WebCalc

Free online engineering calculators — beams, gears, springs, hydraulics

https://www.webcalc.com.br/default_en.html

27

ClearCalcs

Structural engineering calculator for beams, columns, connections, and footings

https://clearcalcs.com/

28

Roark's Formulas Online

Reference for stress/deflection formulas from Roark's classic handbook

https://www.engineersedge.com/strength_of_materials.htm

29

SKF Bearing Calculator

Official SKF tool for bearing selection, life calculation, and lubrication

https://www.skf.com/group/knowledge-centre/engineering-tools/skf-bearing-calculator

30

Spring Calculator by IST

Compression, extension, and torsion spring design calculator

https://www.istspring.com/spring-calculator

31

GD&T Advisor

Interactive GD&T reference and symbol explanations

https://www.gdandtadvisor.com/

128

CalcTool

Free engineering and science calculators — beams, fluid flow, thermodynamics

https://www.calctool.org/

129

Beam Guru

Online beam calculator — shear, moment, deflection for various load conditions

https://beamguru.com/

130

SkyCiv Beam Calculator

Free online beam analysis with visual diagrams — point loads, distributed loads

https://skyciv.com/free-beam-calculator/

131

Bearing Calculation (NSK)

NSK bearing life and load rating calculator

https://www.nsk.com/services/bearing-selection/

132

Timken Bearing Calculator

Timken bearing selection and life calculation tools

https://www.timken.com/resources/engineering/

133

Parker O-Ring Handbook

Classic reference for O-ring seal design with material data and groove dimensions

https://www.parker.com/literature/ORD%205700.pdf

134

Pressure Vessel Calculator

ASME pressure vessel thickness and stress calculators

https://www.pressure-vessel-calculators.com/

135

Heat Transfer Calculator

Convective heat transfer coefficient calculator with correlations

https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/convective-heat-transfer-d_430.html

136

Column Buckling Calculator

Euler and Johnson column buckling analysis calculator

https://mechanicalc.com/calculators/column-buckling/

137

Weld Calculator

Fillet and groove weld strength calculators with AWS references

https://www.engineersedge.com/weld_calculators.htm

138

Spring Design Calculator (Lee Spring)

Compression, extension, and torsion spring design with stock part search

https://www.leespring.com/spring-calculator

139

Thermal Expansion Calculator

Calculate linear, area, and volumetric thermal expansion

https://www.omnicalculator.com/physics/thermal-expansion

140

Pipe Flow Calculator

Calculate pressure drop, flow rate, and pipe sizing for fluid systems

https://www.pipeflowcalculations.com/

141

Vibration Calculator

Simple harmonic motion and natural frequency calculations

https://www.omnicalculator.com/physics/simple-harmonic-motion

266

SimScale

Cloud-based FEA/CFD simulation with free Community plan — AI-assisted meshing and setup

https://www.simscale.com

268

Wolfram Alpha

AI-powered computational engine — solve engineering math, unit conversions, and physics problems

https://www.wolframalpha.com

279

CalculatorSoup

Free engineering calculators for beams, gears, springs, and mechanical design calculations

https://www.calculatorsoup.com

📦CAD Libraries(25)

32

3D ContentCentral

Free 2D/3D CAD models from suppliers, including native SolidWorks format

https://www.3dcontentcentral.com/

33

TraceParts

100M+ free CAD models from industrial component suppliers

https://www.traceparts.com/

34

McMaster-Carr

Industrial supply catalog with downloadable 3D CAD models for most products

https://www.mcmaster.com/

35

Misumi

Configurable mechanical components with instant CAD downloads

https://us.misumi-ec.com/

36

PARTcommunity

3D CAD models from hundreds of manufacturers via CADENAS platform

https://b2b.partcommunity.com/

37

Thomas Supplier Discovery

Find suppliers and manufacturers for industrial components

https://www.thomasnet.com/

38

SparkFun 3D Models

Open-source 3D models of SparkFun electronics products

https://github.com/sparkfun/3D_Models

39

Thingiverse

Massive library of 3D printable models — great for prototyping and fixtures

https://www.thingiverse.com/

40

Printables

Curated 3D printing model repository by Prusa — high quality engineering prints

https://www.printables.com/

41

PartSelect

Appliance parts with diagrams — useful for reverse engineering reference

https://www.partselect.com/

42

Component Search Engine

Free electronic component CAD models (3D, PCB footprints) from SamacSys

https://componentsearchengine.com/

43

SnapEDA

Free PCB footprints, schematic symbols, and 3D models for electronics

https://www.snapeda.com/

142

RS Components (DesignSpark)

Free 3D CAD models for electronics and industrial components

https://www.rs-online.com/designspark/home

143

Mouser Electronics 3D Models

Electronic component distributor with free 3D CAD downloads via SamacSys

https://www.mouser.com/

144

DigiKey 3D Models

Electronic components with free CAD models via SnapEDA integration

https://www.digikey.com/

145

Parker 3D CAD

Hydraulic and pneumatic component 3D CAD models from Parker Hannifin

https://ph.parker.com/us/en/home

146

Festo Product Catalog

Pneumatic and automation components with configurable 3D CAD downloads

https://www.festo.com/us/en/

147

SMC Pneumatics CAD

Pneumatic component CAD models — cylinders, valves, fittings

https://www.smcpneumatics.com/

148

80/20 Inc CAD Library

T-slot aluminum framing system with full 3D model library

https://8020.net/

149

Bossard CAD Models

Fastener and assembly technology supplier with CAD downloads

https://www.bossard.com/

150

CADENAS PARTsolutions

Enterprise parts catalog with millions of supplier 3D models

https://partsolutions.com/

151

Automation Direct

Industrial automation parts with free CAD model downloads

https://www.automationdirect.com/

152

Spaenaur

Fastener distributor with technical data and CAD models

https://www.spaenaur.com/

153

OpenBuilds

Open-source linear motion hardware with STEP/SolidWorks files

https://openbuilds.com/

154

igus CAD Models

Polymer bearings, cable carriers, and linear guides with 3D CAD configurators

https://www.igus.com/

📚Reference(18)

44

McMaster-Carr Technical Data

De facto engineering reference — detailed specs, tolerances, and material data for everything

https://www.mcmaster.com/

45

Machinery's Handbook Online

The "Bible of mechanical engineering" — essential reference for every shop

https://www.industrialpress.com/machinerys-handbook/

46

Engineer's Handbook

Free online reference for materials, tolerances, finishes, and standards

https://www.engineershandbook.com/

47

ASME Standards

Official source for ASME standards — pressure vessels, piping, threads

https://www.asme.org/codes-standards

48

ISO Standards

International standards catalog — search and preview ISO standards

https://www.iso.org/standards.html

49

MatWeb Material Database

Searchable material property data for metals, plastics, ceramics, composites

https://www.matweb.com/

50

Amesweb Engineering

Free engineering reference — fits/tolerances, surface finish, thread data

https://amesweb.info/

51

Engineering Toolbox

Comprehensive engineering reference with calculators and data tables

https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/

52

Protolabs Design Tips

Design-for-manufacturing tips for injection molding, CNC, and 3D printing

https://www.protolabs.com/resources/design-tips/

155

MakeItFrom

Material properties comparison database with easy side-by-side views

https://www.makeitfrom.com/

156

EFunda

Engineering fundamentals — formulas, material properties, process info

https://www.efunda.com/

157

Engineering Standards (ANSI)

American National Standards Institute — purchase and preview US standards

https://webstore.ansi.org/

158

Metal Supermarkets Blog

Practical metal material guides — alloys, heat treatment, properties

https://www.metalsupermarkets.com/blog/

159

Curbell Plastics Reference

Plastic material selection guide with properties and design tips

https://www.curbellplastics.com/

160

ASM International

Materials science society — handbooks, phase diagrams, heat treat data

https://www.asminternational.org/

161

Steel Grades Database

European and international steel grade properties and equivalents

https://www.steelnumber.com/

162

Engineer's Mini Notebook

Quick-reference engineering data — taps, drills, tolerances, conversions

https://www.engineersedge.com/pocket_ref.htm

163

Fastener Standards (IFI)

Industrial Fasteners Institute — specs, standards, and technical data

https://www.indfast.org/

🔧Online Tools(34)

53

Unit Converter

Comprehensive unit conversion tool for all engineering units

https://www.unitconverters.net/

54

Desmos Graphing Calculator

Beautiful online graphing calculator — great for plotting engineering functions

https://www.desmos.com/calculator

55

Wolfram Alpha

Computational knowledge engine — solve equations, plot functions, look up data

https://www.wolframalpha.com/

56

Thread Calculator

Calculate thread dimensions for UNC, UNF, metric, and ACME threads

https://amesweb.info/Screws/thread-calculator.aspx

57

O-Ring Calculator

O-ring size charts and groove design reference

https://www.marcorubber.com/o-ring-size-chart.htm

58

Tolerance Calculator

ISO fits and tolerances calculator — hole/shaft basis system

https://amesweb.info/fits-tolerances/tolerance-calculator.aspx

59

Press Fit Calculator

Calculate interference fit forces and stresses

https://amesweb.info/fits-tolerances/press-fit-force-calculator.aspx

60

Gear Generator

Interactive web-based gear train designer and animator

https://geargenerator.com/

61

Involute Gear Calculator

Calculate involute spur gear geometry and export DXF profiles

https://evolventdesign.com/

62

eDrawings Viewer

Free viewer for SolidWorks, DXF, DWG, and eDrawings files

https://www.edrawingsviewer.com/

63

3D Viewer Online

Free online 3D model viewer — supports STEP, STL, OBJ, and many formats

https://3dviewer.net/

64

STP Viewer

Free STEP file viewer (also try IDA-STEP viewer offline)

https://www.youmagine.com/

65

Online DXF Viewer

Free online viewer for DXF, DWG, STEP, and other CAD files

https://sharecad.org/

164

GD&T Advisor Pro

Interactive GD&T symbol selector and tolerance advisor

https://www.sigmetrix.com/gdt-advisor/

165

Involute Gear Design (Dr. Radzevich)

Spur gear geometry calculator with DXF export

https://evolventdesign.com/pages/spur-gear-calculator

166

Bolt Pattern Calculator

Calculate bolt circle coordinates for any number of holes

https://www.engineersedge.com/calculators/bolt-pattern-calculator.htm

167

IDA-STEP Viewer

Free STEP file viewer for inspecting CAD geometry without full CAD software

https://www.intentsoftware.com/

168

STEP File Analyzer (NIST)

NIST tool to validate and analyze STEP AP203/AP214 files

https://www.nist.gov/services-resources/software/step-file-analyzer-and-viewer

169

Spring Calculator Online

Free online spring design tool with material database

https://springipedia.com/spring-calculator

170

Cam Design Calculator

Cam profile geometry and motion calculations

https://www.engineersedge.com/cam_design.htm

171

Shrink Fit Calculator

Calculate temperatures and stresses for shrink/press fit assemblies

https://amesweb.info/fits-tolerances/shrink-fit-calculator.aspx

172

Belt Length Calculator

Calculate V-belt and timing belt lengths from pulley geometry

https://www.omnicalculator.com/physics/belt-length

173

Bearing Fit Calculator

ISO tolerance fits for bearing inner/outer race installation

https://amesweb.info/fits-tolerances/bearing-fit-calculator.aspx

174

Wire Gauge Calculator

AWG wire gauge size, resistance, and current capacity calculator

https://www.omnicalculator.com/other/wire-gauge

175

Shaft Alignment Calculator

Laser alignment reference and calculation tools for rotating equipment

https://www.fixturlaser.com/knowledge-center/

176

DXF2GCODE

Open-source tool to convert DXF files to G-code for CNC machines

https://github.com/TurBoss/dxf2gcode

177

SVG Nest

Open-source nesting tool — optimize part layout on sheets for cutting

https://svgnest.com/

178

DeepNest

Free nesting software for sheet metal, laser cutting, and CNC routing

https://deepnest.io/

179

WebPlotDigitizer

Extract data points from graphs and plots — digitize engineering charts

https://automeris.io/WebPlotDigitizer/

261

FreeCAD with AI Plugins

Open-source parametric CAD with growing AI plugin ecosystem for automated modeling

https://www.freecad.org

267

GrabCAD Community

Free CAD model library with AI-powered search across millions of engineering models

https://grabcad.com

274

KiCad

Free open-source PCB/electronics design tool — pairs with mechanical enclosure design in SolidWorks

https://www.kicad.org

277

Engineering Paper Generator

Free customizable graph/engineering paper generator — handy for sketching alongside AI tools

https://incompetech.com/graphpaper/

280

3D Viewer Online

Free browser-based 3D model viewer — supports STEP, STL, OBJ for quick reviews without SolidWorks

https://3dviewer.net

🎮Fun & Nerdy(27)

66

Gear Generator

Design meshing gear trains interactively and watch them animate

https://geargenerator.com/

67

Linkage Mechanism Designer

Design and simulate 4-bar linkages and complex mechanisms

https://blog.rectorsquid.com/linkage-mechanism-designer-and-simulator/

68

Mechanisms by P. Schwartz

Animated catalog of 500+ mechanical mechanisms — cams, gears, linkages

https://www.mekanizmalar.com/

69

Bartosz Ciechanowski

Stunning interactive visual explanations of gears, GPS, cameras, and physics

https://ciechanow.ski/

70

Algodoo

2D physics sandbox — build machines, gears, and Rube Goldberg contraptions

https://www.algodoo.com/

71

PhET Simulations

Free interactive physics and engineering simulations from CU Boulder

https://phet.colorado.edu/

72

Explorable Explanations

Collection of interactive learning tools for math, physics, and engineering

https://explorabl.es/

73

WebGL Fluid Simulation

Mesmerizing interactive fluid dynamics in your browser

https://paveldogreat.github.io/WebGL-Fluid-Simulation/

74

Sim-Plicity FEA

Free cloud-based FEA and CFD simulation — no install needed

https://www.simscale.com/

75

The Mechanical Universe

Classic Caltech physics lecture series — beautifully animated

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8_xPU5epJddRABXqJ5h5G0dk-XGtA5cZ

76

Marble Machine X

Martin Molin's incredible music machine build — engineering eye candy

https://www.youtube.com/c/Wintergatan

77

Stuff Made Here

Engineering projects with SolidWorks — robots, gadgets, impossible builds

https://www.youtube.com/c/StuffMadeHere

78

Build Its

Interactive mechanism builder and physics simulator

https://builditsfun.com/

180

Ben Eater

Building computers from scratch — breadboard CPU, networking from gates up

https://www.youtube.com/c/BenEater

181

Applied Science

Deep-dive engineering experiments — electron microscopes, DIY semiconductors

https://www.youtube.com/c/AppliedScience

182

Mark Rober

Former NASA engineer — creative engineering builds and experiments

https://www.youtube.com/c/MarkRober

183

Veritasium

Science and engineering explanations with stunning demonstrations

https://www.youtube.com/c/veritasium

184

SmarterEveryDay

Engineering curiosity — slow-mo, rockets, submarines, manufacturing tours

https://www.youtube.com/c/smartereveryday

185

This Old Tony

Entertaining machining, welding, and mechanical engineering projects

https://www.youtube.com/c/ThisOldTony

186

Clickspring

Precision clockmaking and machining — satisfying metalworking artistry

https://www.youtube.com/c/Clickspring

187

Mechanism Collection (Cornell)

Cornell's digital library of kinematic models — Reuleaux mechanism collection

https://kmoddl.library.cornell.edu/

188

507 Mechanical Movements

Animated GIFs of 507 classic mechanical movements from 1868 book

https://507movements.com/

189

Interactive Bezier Curves

Deep interactive guide to Bezier curves — essential for CAD geometry

https://pomax.github.io/bezierinfo/

190

Seeing Theory

Visual introduction to probability and statistics with interactive demos

https://seeing-theory.brown.edu/

191

Nicky Case

Interactive explorable explanations — game theory, systems thinking

https://ncase.me/

192

Falstad Circuit Simulator

Free interactive electronic circuit simulator in the browser

https://www.falstad.com/circuit/

193

Turbo Encabulator

The legendary engineering satire video — a rite of passage for engineers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac7G7xOG2Ag

📋Productivity(11)

79

Trello

Kanban board for project management — popular with engineering teams

https://trello.com/

80

Git for CAD (LFS)

Git Large File Storage — version control for CAD files

https://git-lfs.com/

81

ShareCAD

Free online CAD file viewer — share drawings without software installs

https://sharecad.org/

82

CloudConvert

Convert between file formats online — DXF, SVG, PDF, images, etc.

https://cloudconvert.com/

83

PDF2DXF

Convert PDF drawings back to DXF format for CAD editing

https://www.pdf2dxf.com/

194

SharpSync

CAD-to-ERP synchronization tool — sync BOMs between SolidWorks and business systems

https://github.com/SharpSync/documentation

195

nanoPLM

Open-source PLM for small manufacturers — supports FreeCAD and STEP files

https://github.com/alekssadowski95/nanoPLM

196

OdooPLM

Open-source Product Lifecycle Management module for Odoo ERP

https://github.com/OmniaGit/odooplm

197

OpenBOM

Cloud BOM and inventory management — integrates with SolidWorks

https://www.openbom.com/

198

MangoApps

Team collaboration platform used by engineering teams for documentation

https://www.mangoapps.com/

199

SolidWorks Pack and Go

Built-in tool to package SolidWorks files with references for sharing

https://help.solidworks.com/2025/english/SolidWorks/sldworks/c_pack_and_go.htm

🎓Learning(23)

84

SolidWorks Built-in Tutorials

Free tutorials bundled with SolidWorks — often overlooked by beginners

https://www.solidworks.com/sw/resources/getting-started.htm

85

Model Mania Archive

24 years of SolidWorks World modeling challenges with solutions

https://blogs.solidworks.com/tech/2023/02/24-years-of-model-mania.html

86

CSWA/CSWP Exam Prep

Free SOLIDWORKS certification prep course

https://canvas.instructure.com/enroll/KFXPFD

87

r/SolidWorks

Active community for SolidWorks users — tips, troubleshooting, show-and-tell

https://www.reddit.com/r/SolidWorks/

88

SolidWorks Forums

Official SOLIDWORKS user community forums

https://forum.solidworks.com/

89

MySolidWorks Training

Free SolidWorks training portal with guided lessons and exercises

https://my.solidworks.com/

90

CAD Tutorials by Lars

Advanced SolidWorks tips, tricks, and workflows from a Certified Expert

https://www.youtube.com/@LarsChristensen

91

MIT OpenCourseWare - MechE

Free MIT mechanical engineering courses — design, thermo, manufacturing

https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/mechanical-engineering/

92

3Blue1Brown

Beautiful math visualizations — linear algebra, calculus, Fourier transforms

https://www.youtube.com/c/3blue1brown

93

Practical Engineering

Civil/mechanical engineering concepts explained with physical models

https://www.youtube.com/c/PracticalEngineering

200

SolidWorks Tutorials (Matt Perez)

Step-by-step SolidWorks modeling tutorials for beginners and intermediate

https://www.youtube.com/@CADTutorials

201

Engineering Mindset

Visual explanations of engineering concepts — HVAC, electrical, mechanical

https://www.youtube.com/c/Theengineeringmindset

202

Learn Engineering

3D animated engineering concepts — engines, gears, turbines, bearings

https://www.youtube.com/c/LearnEngineering

203

The Efficient Engineer

Concise mechanical engineering explainers — stress, materials, FEA

https://www.youtube.com/c/TheEfficientEngineer

204

SolidWorks Tutorial Hub (YouTube)

Focused SolidWorks tutorials — surfacing, weldments, sheet metal

https://www.youtube.com/@SolidWorksTutorialsHub

205

SOLIDWORKS Certification Center

Official CSWA, CSWP, CSWE certification info, practice exams, and registration

https://www.solidworks.com/certifications

206

edX Engineering Courses

Free university-level engineering courses from MIT, Georgia Tech, etc.

https://www.edx.org/learn/engineering

207

Coursera Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering courses from top universities — FEA, CAD, design

https://www.coursera.org/browse/physical-science-and-engineering/mechanical-engineering

208

SolidWorks World (3DEXPERIENCE World)

Annual SolidWorks user conference — presentations, workshops, networking

https://www.3dexperienceworld.com/

209

EngineerDog Blog

Practical SolidWorks tips, free templates, and engineering calculators

https://engineerdog.com/

210

CAD Booster Blog

SolidWorks performance tips, tricks, and add-in development guides

https://cadbooster.com/

211

Innova Systems YouTube

SolidWorks tips, tutorials, and What's New feature overviews

https://www.youtube.com/@InnovaSystems

212

SOLIDWORKS Tech Blog

Official technical blog with tips, Model Mania, and API examples

https://blogs.solidworks.com/tech/

📐GD&T & Standards(15)

94

GD&T Basics

Free GD&T reference — symbols, datums, tolerances explained with examples

https://www.gdandtbasics.com/

95

ASME Y14.5 Quick Reference

GD&T symbol definitions and application rules reference

https://www.engineersedge.com/gdt.htm

96

ISO GPS Standards

ISO geometrical product specifications standards catalog

https://www.iso.org/committee/54924.html

97

Tolerance Stackup Analysis

Tutorial on performing 1D tolerance stackup analysis

https://www.gdandtbasics.com/tolerance-stackup

98

Thread Standards Reference

Comprehensive thread dimension tables — UNC, UNF, metric, pipe threads

https://www.engineersedge.com/thread_standards.htm

99

Surface Finish Chart

Ra/Rz surface roughness values, symbols, and manufacturing capabilities

https://www.engineersedge.com/surface_finish.htm

213

GD&T Fundamentals (Tec-Ease)

GD&T training tips, pocket guides, and tolerance reference cards

https://www.tec-ease.com/

214

GD&T Master

Interactive GD&T training and certification practice platform

https://gdandtmaster.com/

215

SAE Standards

Society of Automotive Engineers standards — materials, fasteners, testing

https://www.sae.org/standards/

216

ASTM Standards

Materials testing and specification standards — metals, polymers, composites

https://www.astm.org/

217

Mitutoyo Metrology Handbook

Precision measurement reference — calipers, micrometers, CMM techniques

https://www.mitutoyo.com/

218

GD&T Trainer App

Mobile app for practicing GD&T symbol recognition and interpretation

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gd-t-trainer/id1437299906

219

ASME Y14.41 (Digital Product Definition)

Standard for MBD — annotating 3D models with GD&T

https://www.asme.org/codes-standards/find-codes-standards/y14-41-digital-product-definition-data-practices

220

Keyence Measurement Resources

Dimensional measurement guides, GD&T explanations, and inspection techniques

https://www.keyence.com/ss/products/measure-sys/

221

Datum Reference Frame Explained

Tutorial on establishing datum reference frames per ASME Y14.5

https://www.gdandtbasics.com/datum-reference-frame

🏭Manufacturing(33)

100

FSWizard Speeds & Feeds

Free CNC speeds and feeds calculator with material database

https://www.fswizard.com/

101

G-Code Reference

Complete G-code and M-code reference for CNC programming

https://www.cnccookbook.com/g-code-m-code-reference/

102

CNC Cookbook

CNC machining tips, calculators, and feeds/speeds reference

https://www.cnccookbook.com/

103

Prusa Slicer

Free open-source 3D print slicer with excellent SolidWorks STL support

https://www.prusa3d.com/page/prusaslicer_424/

104

Sheet Metal Bend Calculator

Calculate bend allowance, K-factor, and developed length for sheet metal

https://www.custompartnet.com/calculator/sheet-metal-bend

105

CustomPartNet

Manufacturing cost estimators for injection molding, CNC, casting, and more

https://www.custompartnet.com/

106

SendCutSend

Online laser/waterjet cutting service — upload DXF, get parts in days

https://sendcutsend.com/

107

Xometry Instant Quote

Instant manufacturing quotes for CNC, 3D printing, sheet metal, injection molding

https://www.xometry.com/

108

Protolabs

Rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing with DFM analysis

https://www.protolabs.com/

109

Hubs (formerly 3D Hubs)

Manufacturing-as-a-service platform — CNC, 3D printing, injection molding

https://www.hubs.com/

110

Tap Drill Chart

Tap drill sizes for UNC, UNF, and metric threads

https://www.engineersedge.com/tap_drill_chart.htm

111

Drill & Tap Calculator

Interactive drill and tap size chart with clearance hole data

https://www.rfrwire.com/drill-tap-chart/

112

3D Printing Tolerances Guide

Guide to achievable tolerances for FDM, SLA, and SLS printing

https://www.hubs.com/knowledge-base/dimensional-accuracy-3d-printed-parts/

113

Weld Symbol Reference

AWS weld symbol chart and joint type reference

https://www.engineersedge.com/weld_symbols.htm

222

Cura Slicer

Free open-source 3D printing slicer — wide printer compatibility

https://ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura/

223

OctoPrint

Open-source 3D printer management via web interface — remote monitoring

https://octoprint.org/

224

SuperSlicer

Fork of PrusaSlicer with extra features for 3D printing enthusiasts

https://github.com/supermerill/SuperSlicer

225

Injection Molding Cost Estimator

Estimate injection molding part costs based on geometry and material

https://www.custompartnet.com/estimate/injection-molding/

226

Sheet Metal K-Factor Calculator

K-factor, bend allowance, and flat pattern calculators for sheet metal

https://www.sheetmetal.me/

227

RapidDirect

Online CNC machining, 3D printing, sheet metal, and injection molding service

https://www.rapiddirect.com/

228

Fictiv

On-demand manufacturing platform — CNC, 3D printing, injection molding

https://www.fictiv.com/

229

PCBWay

PCB fabrication and CNC/3D printing services with instant quoting

https://www.pcbway.com/

230

JLCPCB

Low-cost PCB fabrication and 3D printing (MJF/SLA) services

https://jlcpcb.com/

231

Anodizing Reference

Anodizing process guide — types, thickness, color options for aluminum

https://www.engineersedge.com/anodizing.htm

232

Heat Treatment Guide

Metal heat treatment reference — hardening, tempering, annealing, case hardening

https://www.engineersedge.com/heat_treatment.htm

233

Surface Finish Conversion Chart

Convert between Ra, Rz, RMS, and CLA surface roughness values

https://www.engineersedge.com/surface_finish_conversion.htm

234

Tolerance Charts by Process

Achievable tolerances for CNC, casting, stamping, and other processes

https://www.engineersedge.com/manufacturing_tolerances.htm

235

Thread Milling Calculator

Sandvik threading reference — speeds, feeds, and thread milling calculators

https://www.sandvik.coromant.com/en-us/knowledge/threading

236

GCode Simulator

Free browser-based G-code visualizer — preview toolpaths before cutting

https://nraynaud.github.io/webgcode/

237

LaserBoost

Online laser cutting service for metal parts — upload DXF, instant pricing

https://www.laserboost.com/

238

OSHCut

Instant online laser cutting quotes — upload DXF/DWG, pick material, order

https://app.oshcut.com/

239

Material Hardness Conversion

Convert between Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers, and Shore hardness scales

https://www.engineersedge.com/hardness_conversion.htm

240

Tolerance Stackup Spreadsheet

Free Excel template for 1D worst-case and RSS tolerance stackup analysis

https://engineerdog.com/tolerance-stackup/

🤖AI Tools(32)

118

ChatSW

AI-assisted mechanical 3D modeling chat plugin for SolidWorks

https://github.com/danimeo/chatsw

241

Zoo Design Studio

AI-native CAD with conversational design agent that generates editable B-rep geometry from prompts

https://zoo.dev

242

ChatGPT

Free AI chatbot great for engineering calculations, SolidWorks API help, and technical Q&A

https://chatgpt.com

243

Claude

Anthropic's AI assistant — excellent for writing SolidWorks macros, debugging VBA, and engineering analysis

https://claude.ai

244

Google Gemini

Google's free AI chatbot with strong reasoning for engineering math and code generation

https://gemini.google.com

245

Perplexity AI

AI-powered search engine — great for finding engineering specs, material data, and standards

https://www.perplexity.ai

246

Tripo AI

Generate 3D models from text or images — free tier available, exports OBJ/GLB/STL

https://www.tripo3d.ai

247

Meshy AI

Text and image to 3D model generator with free tier — useful for concept visualization

https://www.meshy.ai

248

Krea AI

AI creative suite with text-to-3D, image generation, and real-time AI canvas — free tier

https://www.krea.ai

249

OpenAI Shap-E

Open-source tool to generate 3D objects from text or images using diffusion models

https://github.com/openai/shap-e

250

OpenAI Point-E

Open-source point cloud diffusion for 3D model synthesis from text prompts

https://github.com/openai/point-e

251

Luma AI

AI video and 3D generation — scan real objects into 3D with your phone camera

https://lumalabs.ai

252

GitHub Copilot

AI pair programmer with free tier — superb for writing SolidWorks API macros in VBA/C#

https://github.com/features/copilot

253

Windsurf (Codeium)

Free AI coding assistant and IDE — great for SolidWorks macro development and automation scripts

https://windsurf.com

254

Google AI Studio

Free access to Gemini models via API — build custom AI tools for engineering workflows

https://aistudio.google.com

255

Hugging Face

Open-source AI model hub — host and run free ML models for 3D generation, image analysis, and more

https://huggingface.co

256

Semantic Scholar

Free AI-powered search across 230M+ scientific papers — find engineering research fast

https://www.semanticscholar.org

257

Elicit

AI research assistant that finds and summarizes scientific papers — great for materials science and FEA research

https://elicit.com

258

NotebookLM

Google's AI notebook — upload SolidWorks docs, standards, or textbooks and chat with them

https://notebooklm.google.com

259

DeepL Translate

Best AI translator — essential for reading foreign engineering specs, datasheets, and standards

https://www.deepl.com

260

Pollinations AI

Free, open-source AI image generation API — generate engineering concept art and diagrams

https://pollinations.ai

262

CAD Assist

AI-powered CAD assistant for answering questions about CAD software workflows

https://www.cadassist.ai

263

NVIDIA Omniverse

Free platform for 3D design collaboration with AI-powered simulation and physics

https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/omniverse/

264

Gamma

AI-powered presentation generator — create polished engineering presentations and design reviews in seconds

https://gamma.app

265

nTopology Learning

Free learning resources for AI-driven topology optimization and generative design

https://learn.ntopology.com

269

Phind

AI search engine built for developers — great for SolidWorks API questions and coding help

https://www.phind.com

270

Google Colab

Free GPU-powered Python notebooks — run AI models for topology optimization, FEA, and data analysis

https://colab.research.google.com

272

Fast.ai

Free deep learning courses — learn to build AI models for manufacturing defect detection and quality control

https://www.fast.ai

273

MIT OpenCourseWare — AI for Manufacturing

Free MIT courses on AI, machine learning, and their applications in manufacturing and engineering

https://ocw.mit.edu

275

Teachable Machine

Train custom image classification models in-browser — great for visual quality inspection prototyping

https://teachablemachine.withgoogle.com

276

Roboflow

Free tier computer vision platform — build defect detection and part inspection models without code

https://roboflow.com

278

OpenMDAO

NASA's open-source multidisciplinary design optimization framework with AI-compatible Python interface

https://openmdao.org