How to Revolve in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To revolve in SolidWorks, first create a 2D sketch of the profile you want to revolve. Then select the Revolve Boss/Base feature, choose an axis or edge to revolve around, and set the angle to create a 3D shape.

Syntax

The basic steps to use the Revolve Boss/Base feature in SolidWorks are:

• Create a 2D sketch of the profile.
• Define an axis of revolution (a line or edge).
• Use the Revolve Boss/Base tool from the Features tab.
• Set the revolve angle (usually 360° for a full revolve).
• Confirm to generate the 3D revolved feature.

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1. Sketch profile (2D)
2. Select axis of revolution
3. Features tab > Revolve Boss/Base
4. Set angle (e.g., 360 degrees)
5. Click OK

Example

This example shows how to create a simple revolved cylinder by sketching a rectangle and revolving it around one edge.

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1. Open a new part in SolidWorks.
2. Select the Front Plane and create a new sketch.
3. Draw a vertical centerline (this will be the axis).
4. Draw a rectangle to the right of the centerline.
5. Exit the sketch.
6. Go to Features tab and click <code>Revolve Boss/Base</code>.
7. Select the centerline as the axis of revolution.
8. Set the angle to 360 degrees.
9. Click OK to create the revolved cylinder.

Output

A 3D solid cylinder created by revolving the rectangle around the centerline axis.

Common Pitfalls

• Not defining a proper axis: The revolve axis must be a straight line in the sketch or an edge in the model.
• Profile not closed: The sketch profile must be fully closed to revolve correctly.
• Sketch plane and axis alignment: The axis should lie in the sketch plane or be selectable as an edge.
• Partial revolve angle: Forgetting to set the angle to 360° results in a partial revolve.

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Wrong: Using an open profile or no axis selected.
Right: Ensure profile is closed and axis is defined before revolving.

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Create 2D sketch	Use centerline for axis
2	Select Revolve Boss/Base	Find in Features tab
3	Choose axis of revolution	Must be a line or edge
4	Set revolve angle	360° for full revolve
5	Confirm feature	Check 3D preview before OK

Key Takeaways

Always create a closed 2D sketch profile before revolving.

Use a straight line or edge as the axis of revolution.

Set the revolve angle to 360° for a full solid shape.

Check your sketch and axis alignment to avoid errors.

Use the Revolve Boss/Base feature from the Features tab.