How to Use Weldments in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To use weldments in SolidWorks, start by enabling the Weldments feature, then create a 3D sketch or use existing sketches to define structural members with standard profiles. Use the Structural Member tool to add beams, and the Trim/Extend tool to clean up intersections for a complete frame.

Syntax

The basic workflow for weldments in SolidWorks involves these steps:

• Enable Weldments: Turn on the Weldments feature from the Add-Ins menu.
• Create Sketches: Draw 2D or 3D sketches representing the frame's paths.
• Structural Member Tool: Select standard profiles (like square tubes or angles) and apply them along the sketch lines.
• Trim/Extend Tool: Clean up overlapping members by trimming or extending them to meet properly.
• Gussets and End Caps (Optional): Add reinforcement plates or caps for realism and strength.

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Enable Weldments -> Create Sketch -> Structural Member -> Select Profile -> Apply to Sketch -> Trim/Extend

Example

This example shows how to create a simple rectangular frame using weldments:

1. Enable Weldments in SolidWorks.
2. Create a new 3D sketch and draw a rectangle.
3. Open the Structural Member tool, choose a square tube profile.
4. Apply the profile to each rectangle edge.
5. Use Trim/Extend to clean intersections.

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1. Go to Tools > Add-Ins and check 'Weldments'.
2. Start a new part and open a 3D sketch.
3. Draw a rectangle using lines.
4. Exit the sketch and select Structural Member from the Weldments tab.
5. Choose a standard square tube profile from the library.
6. Click each rectangle edge to apply the profile.
7. Use Trim/Extend to fix overlaps.
8. Save your weldment part.

Output

A 3D rectangular frame made of square tube profiles with clean intersections.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when using weldments include:

• Not enabling the Weldments add-in before starting.
• Using 2D sketches when 3D sketches are needed for complex frames.
• Applying structural members to non-sketch geometry.
• Forgetting to trim or extend members, causing overlaps or gaps.
• Ignoring profile orientation, which can cause incorrect beam placement.

Always check your sketches and profiles carefully before applying weldments.

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Wrong: Applying Structural Member to a 2D sketch when 3D is needed.
Right: Use 3D sketches for frames with depth and height.

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Enable Weldments Add-In	Go to Tools > Add-Ins and check Weldments
2	Create Sketch	Use 3D sketches for complex frames
3	Apply Structural Member	Select standard profiles from library
4	Trim/Extend Members	Clean intersections for proper fit
5	Add Gussets or End Caps	Optional for reinforcement and finish

Key Takeaways

Always enable the Weldments add-in before starting your project.

Use 3D sketches to define the paths for structural members accurately.

Apply standard profiles with the Structural Member tool along sketch lines.

Use Trim/Extend to fix overlaps and ensure clean joints.

Check profile orientation to avoid incorrect beam placement.