Designing in SolidWorks is powerful—but starting from scratch every time isn’t always necessary. With millions of pre-built components available online, SolidWorks 3D models help you prototype faster, save time, and explore new design ideas without reinventing the wheel.
Whether you need bolts, gears, furniture, or complex machinery, this guide shows where to find high-quality SolidWorks models, how to use them efficiently, and how to modify them to fit your custom designs.
Table of Contents
What Are SolidWorks 3D Models?
SolidWorks 3D models are digital representations of physical components, parts, and assemblies created in .SLDPRT (part) or .SLDASM (assembly) formats. They’re fully editable, parametric, and compatible with drawings, simulations, and renderings.
They’re used by:
- Mechanical engineers
- Product designers
- Industrial manufacturers
- Students and makers
These models often include real-world features like:
- Threads
- Tolerances
- Materials
- Configurations
Benefits of Using SolidWorks 3D Models
✅ Accelerate Design Time – Start with existing geometry
✅ Ensure Real-World Compatibility – Use manufacturer models
✅ Enhance Design Accuracy – Avoid dimensioning errors
✅ Improve Collaboration – Share standard components with teams
✅ Boost Creativity – Learn new techniques from others’ models
Whether you’re building a custom gearbox or modeling a coffee machine, starting from a base model can jumpstart your creativity.
Top Websites to Download Free SolidWorks 3D Models
1. GrabCAD
- Over 5 million models
- Community-based sharing
- File types:
.SLDPRT,.SLDASM,.STEP,.IGES
URL: https://grabcad.com/library
Why it’s great: Massive variety—from nuts and bolts to aerospace assemblies.
2. 3D ContentCentral
- Powered by Dassault Systèmes
- Models from certified manufacturers
- Configure sizes and CAD format before download
URL: https://www.3dcontentcentral.com
Why it’s great: Reliable, industrial-grade components like bearings, motors, and fasteners.
3. TraceParts
- 100+ million CAD files
- Official partner of SOLIDWORKS
- Models from brands like Siemens, Schneider, and Bosch
URL: https://www.traceparts.com
Why it’s great: Ideal for engineers needing certified parts for BOM and manufacturing.
4. PARTcommunity by Cadenas
- Focused on mechanical and industrial components
- Supports multiple CAD formats
- Supplier-certified content
URL: https://b2b.partcommunity.com
Why it’s great: Essential for automation, control systems, and industrial design.
5. TurboSquid
- Primarily visualization models (non-editable)
- Includes some mechanical and product CAD
URL: https://www.turbosquid.com
Why it’s great: Good for presentation or rendering purposes, less so for engineering.
6. CGTrader
- Marketplace for 3D models
- Some SolidWorks-compatible models available
- Search by “.SLDPRT” or “SolidWorks” keyword
7. ThomasNet CAD Library
- Real parts with spec sheets
- Perfect for sourcing suppliers with 3D model previews
- Manufacturer certified
URL: https://www.thomasnet.com/cad-library.html
How to Use Imported SolidWorks 3D Models
Step 1: Download the Right Format
- Prefer
.SLDPRTor.SLDASMfor native editability - Use
.STEPor.IGESif SolidWorks formats aren’t available
Step 2: Open in SolidWorks
- File > Open
- Review imported geometry in FeatureManager Tree
Step 3: Clean Up and Modify
- Use Direct Editing Tools for imported solids
- Add mates in assemblies
- Apply materials, appearances, or features
Step 4: Save and Integrate into Your Projects
- Group models in folders (e.g., fasteners, furniture, automation parts)
- Add to your Design Library for drag-and-drop reuse
Tips for Working with 3D Models in SolidWorks
- Use Pack and Go when sharing projects that include external components
- Enable Large Assembly Mode if you’re loading dozens of parts
- Use Defeature Tool to simplify imported models
- Run Evaluate > Mass Properties to confirm accuracy
- Check for under-defined sketches if editing user-submitted models
Best Use Cases for Pre-Made SolidWorks 3D Models
| Use Case | How Models Help |
|---|---|
| Prototyping | Start fast with editable mechanical parts |
| Product Visualization | Add context with handles, screws, or enclosures |
| Technical Documentation | Insert standard parts in exploded views |
| BOM Management | Use supplier-certified 3D models |
| Class Projects | Learn modeling structure from real examples |
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
❌ Importing overly detailed models that slow down your system
❌ Using non-editable file types (STL, OBJ) for engineering
❌ Assuming dimensions are correct—always verify
❌ Ignoring model tree cleanliness—organize features after importing
FAQs
Are SolidWorks 3D models free to use?
Most on platforms like GrabCAD and 3D ContentCentral are free. Manufacturer models are licensed for engineering use but may require attribution in some cases.
Can I use 3D models from other software?
Yes. Use .STEP, .IGES, or .SAT files to import models from other CAD programs.
Are downloaded models editable?
Only if they’re saved in native .SLDPRT or .SLDASM formats. Imported solids can be modified using direct editing tools.
How do I search for accurate dimensions?
Always check model metadata or download from manufacturer-certified sources like TraceParts or 3D ContentCentral.
Can I use SolidWorks models for 3D printing?
Yes—export them as .STL files after verifying they are watertight solids using Evaluate > Check.
Conclusion: Build Faster with SolidWorks 3D Models
There’s no need to start from scratch when you have access to millions of SolidWorks 3D models. These ready-to-use parts speed up your workflow, ensure standardization, and give you inspiration for your next design.
From prototyping to production, let these models be the foundation for smarter, more efficient engineering.