How to Perform Frequency Analysis in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To perform frequency analysis in SolidWorks, use the Simulation add-in to create a study, select Frequency as the study type, apply material and fixtures, then run the analysis to find natural frequencies and mode shapes. The results help identify vibration characteristics of your model.

Syntax

Frequency analysis in SolidWorks is done through the Simulation add-in using these main steps:

• Create a new study: Choose Frequency as the study type.
• Apply material properties: Assign material to your model for accurate stiffness and mass.
• Apply fixtures: Define how the model is constrained or supported.
• Mesh the model: Generate a finite element mesh for calculations.
• Run the study: Compute natural frequencies and mode shapes.
• Review results: Visualize frequencies and deformation modes.

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Simulation > New Study > Frequency
Apply Material
Apply Fixtures
Mesh Model
Run Study
Review Results

Example

This example shows how to set up and run a frequency analysis on a simple cantilever beam in SolidWorks Simulation.

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1. Open your beam model in SolidWorks.
2. Enable the Simulation add-in via Tools > Add-Ins.
3. Click Simulation tab > New Study > select Frequency > OK.
4. Right-click on 'Parts' > Apply Material > select Steel > Apply.
5. Right-click on Fixtures > Fixed Geometry > select the fixed end of the beam > OK.
6. Right-click on Mesh > Create Mesh > OK.
7. Click Run to start the frequency analysis.
8. After completion, view the natural frequencies and mode shapes in the Results folder.

Output

Frequency results showing natural frequencies (e.g., 50 Hz, 150 Hz, 300 Hz) and animated mode shapes of the beam vibrating.

Common Pitfalls

• Not applying correct material properties leads to inaccurate frequency results.
• Improper or missing fixtures cause unrealistic boundary conditions and wrong modes.
• Using a coarse mesh can miss important vibration details; refine mesh for accuracy.
• Confusing frequency analysis with static analysis; frequency analysis finds natural vibration modes, not stresses.

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Wrong way:
- No material assigned
- No fixtures applied

Right way:
- Assign correct material
- Apply proper fixtures

Quick Reference

Follow these quick tips for effective frequency analysis in SolidWorks:

• Always assign accurate material properties before analysis.
• Define realistic fixtures to simulate real-world constraints.
• Use mesh refinement to capture detailed vibration modes.
• Review multiple mode shapes to understand all critical frequencies.
• Use animation of mode shapes to visualize vibration patterns.

Key Takeaways

Use the Simulation add-in and select Frequency study type to perform frequency analysis.

Assign correct material and fixtures to ensure accurate vibration results.

Mesh refinement improves the precision of natural frequency calculations.

Review multiple mode shapes to fully understand your model's vibration behavior.

Frequency analysis helps predict resonance and avoid structural failures.