For those of you who have used SOLIDWORKS Weldments for frame design and extrusions in SOLIDWORKS, you’re probably aware of how easy they are to work with and create. However, you may not be aware that there are literally thousands of profiles that you can download for free directly in the software.
How to Download the Weldment Profiles
Almost all of the standard weldment profiles are available, such as ANSI, BSI, DIN and Unistrut. To download the files, simply start SOLIDWORKS, launch the Design Library, then click on SOLIDWORKS Content > Weldments.
Other Available Files for Free Download
You’ll notice plenty of components for Blocks, CircuitWorks and Routing in the Design Library, as well. To download the other files, simply hold CTRL + click on the standard you want, and they will download into a zip file. Once downloaded, extract your zip file to your weldment profile directory and you’ll be all set. To change, move or set your directory to a specific Windows folder location, simply go to Tools > Options > File Locations > Weldment Profiles, as shown:
You’ll then see a lot of weldment profiles available to you when creating new structural members or editing existing designs.
More Profiles Available for Free
SOLIDWORKS isn’t the only place where you can find free downloads! Many suppliers actually provide their profiles on 3D Content Central. This is a free service for locating, configuring, downloading and requesting 2D and 3D parts and assemblies, 2D blocks, library features and macros – many specifically for SOLIDWORKS.
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