code_aster
Open-source structural and thermal finite element solver developed by EDF R&D in France, with decades of validation
Quick Overview
| Company | EDF R&D (developer); SIMVIA SAS (hosting, support, training) |
|---|---|
| Category | Engineering Simulation (CAE/FEA) |
| Headquarters | Paris-Saclay area, France |
| Founded | Not stated |
| EU Presence | Yes - France (EU) |
| Data Location | Runs on your own machines or HPC |
| Open Source | GPL v3 |
| GDPR Compliant | Yes |
| Self-Hosting | Yes - download and run locally |
| Main Features | Linear and non-linear static analysis, thermo-mechanics, geomechanics, modal and spectral dynamics, rotating machinery, seismic assessment, Salome-Meca integration, Python scripting |
| Pricing | Free software; paid support and training through SIMVIA |
| Best For | Engineers who need validated structural mechanics without licence fees |
| Replaces | Ansys Mechanical, Abaqus |
Detailed Review
code_aster is open-source software for numerical simulation in structural mechanics, developed by EDF's R&D department. The project site states 37 years of development, more than 4,600 verification test cases and about a million lines of code.
The software is distributed under the GNU GPL version 3, so there is no licence fee. The project site is published by SIMVIA SAS in Palaiseau, which also sells technical support and training.
Analysis Capabilities
The product page lists linear and non-linear static analysis, thermo-mechanical coupling, thermo-hydro-mechanical calculations, geomechanics and soil-structure interaction, modal, spectral and non-linear dynamics, rotating machinery and seismic assessment of structures.
It was written to serve EDF's own studies on installations, which explains the emphasis on design, maintenance and life extension of plant.
Salome-Meca and Python
Salome-Meca, developed by EDF and CEA, wraps code_aster in an integrated environment for geometry, meshing and result viewing. Python is the scripting standard for automating studies and building pipelines.
This gives a full open workflow, but the user assembles it rather than receiving a single commercial installer.
Support Without a Licence Fee
SIMVIA lists technical support, software integration, cloud and HPC services and a code_aster training catalogue on its site. An annual user meeting brings together developers and industrial users; the 2026 meeting was held at EDF Lab Paris-Saclay.
Budget therefore goes to training and support rather than to seats.
Limitations to Consider
code_aster is a solver for mechanics and thermal problems, not a multiphysics suite: for fluids see code_saturne. It is script-driven and has a steep learning curve, with no vendor-branded desktop product comparable to Ansys Workbench. Commercial support depends on third parties such as SIMVIA rather than on the developer itself. The pages checked state no Windows installer.
Who Should Use code_aster
Engineering offices, utilities and research groups that want a validated, auditable solver and accept an open-source workflow.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No licence cost, GPL v3
- Large verification suite (4,600+ tests)
- Developed by an industrial R&D department
- Python scripting for automation
- French commercial support available
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Structural and thermal only
- No single commercial GUI
- Support through a third party
Alternatives to code_aster
Other European engineering simulation (cae/fea) worth comparing before you decide:
SimScale
Germany · Cloud simulation for CFD, structural and thermal analysis in a browser
Quanscient
Finland · Cloud multiphysics solver with all physics and unlimited users
COMSOL
Sweden · Multiphysics platform with one interface and add-on modules
Dlubal
Germany · Structural analysis software with code-based design and wind simulation
See all European engineering simulation (cae/fea) or compare them directly against Ansys Mechanical on our alternatives page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. It is distributed under the GNU GPL version 3 and its source is open. Paid support and training are sold separately by SIMVIA.
EDF's R&D department in France. The project website is published and hosted by SIMVIA SAS.
For structural and thermo-mechanical analysis, yes in capability, but with a script-driven workflow and no commercial front end. Teams usually pair it with Salome-Meca.