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Download Free 3D CAD Models
As part of our commitment to support design engineers, RS Components provides 3D CAD Models to download for free in multiple
file formats - including SolidWorks, AutoDesk and TurboCAD - ready to import directly into all of the most popular computer
aided design software.
If you are not already registered to RS online, simply register now and browse through the electronics and automation
technologies on the left to find the 3D CAD model of your choice.
Designspark Mechanical is a free and fully functioning 3D design package that features intuitive geometry creation techniques. These techniques will help you to generate world-changing designs more easily, quickly & creatively than ever before.
- Fully featured, free of charge
- Powerful yet easy to use
- Compatible with existing RS 3D CAD Models
3D CAD useful information
3D CAD tutorial video
Watch the video tutorial to see how to search and download 3D CAD models.
3D CAD manufacturers
Solidworks (.sldasm)
Solidworks is one of the most popular parametric-based modelling tools on the market. Solidworks is developed by Dassault Systèmes.
Top Solid (.top)
Top Solid is a fully integrated CAD/CAM software that enables users to design and manufacture their parts using a common software platform.
Inventor (.ipt)
Inventor, developed by industry leader Autodesk, is a parametric-based modelling tool that integrates motion simulation and stress analysis into the design environment.
Pro/Engineer Neutral (.neu)
Pro/Engineer from PTC was one of the first CAD systems to offer parametric, feature-based, associative solid modelling.
Solid Edge (.asm)
Solid Edge is a software tool that offers full parametric based modelling, along with links to PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software.
SketchUp (.skp)
SketchUp is the leading free-to-market 3D modelling tool. Previously developed by Google, the tool is now published by Trimble.
Parasolid (.x_t)
Parasolid is a geometric modelling kernel owned by Siemens PLM Software. It provides the core functionality for many of the parametric-based modelling tools on the market today.
Catia V4 (.model)
CATIA is a multi-platform CAD/CAM software suite from Dassault Systèmes. A high-end professional tool, CATIA is the cornerstone of the Dassault Systemes product lifecycle management software suite.
TurboCAD (.tcw)
TurboCAD was originally developed as a low cost alternative to AutoCAD in the 2D drafting market. Now in the 19th version, it continues to offer low cost access to 3D modelling.
SpaceClaim (.scdoc)
SpaceClaim is the leading direct-modelling tool on the market, offering very intuitive modelling combined with powerful professional features, making it a real alternative to more traditional parametric-based tools.
Q - I don't have access to java in my browser. Where can I download the latest Java software?
A - If Java is not installed, you can download the Java application by going to http://www.java.com/en/selectlanguage.jsp
Q - The 3D CAD Model image isn't displaying properly in my browser, what can I do?
A - The viewer works best in the following browsers - IE7 or 8 / Firefox / Chrome - you can get the image to refresh by using the browser refresh button or by scrolling the browser pane.
Q - We are not allowed to use java in our browsers - what can we do?
A - The viewer requires java to display the 3D image - you will need to use the "click for more images" link to view a product image or line drawing - you can still download a 3D CAD model without java.
Q - Can I download a 3D CAD Model for a CAD Application that doesn't appear in the drop down list?
A - RS only supports the native 3D CAD formats in the drop-down list - if your 3D CAD system or version is not listed then try to import a neutral format like STEP or IGES.
Q - When I click on the 3D CAD Model image it starts spinning very fast - how do I stop this happening?
A - Click on the image of a house in the CAD viewer.
Q - The 3D CAD Model image is different to the picture when I click the link for more images - which one is correct?
A - The 3D CAD Model image is correct - the photograph or line drawing is a generic image used for several products in that range and is for guidance only.
Q - I want to download a 3D CAD Model but I don't have an RS account - what should I do?
A - You don't need an RS account to download 3D CAD Models - just click the link to register and fill out your details - this will register you as a web user and you can then download 3D CAD Models.
Q - I've lost my user name and password and I want to download a 3D CAD Model - what should I do?
A - Click the login link and then use the forgotten username / password links.
Q - I don't like the 3D CAD Model images - how can I switch them off?
A - The 3D CAD Model image is a feature of our website and it cannot be switched off. We will be updating our website soon to give you the option to switch off the 3D viewer.
Q - I want to get a 3D CAD Model for a specific part number but it doesn't have a 3D CAD Model image - how do I obtain one?
A - You can only get 3D CAD Models from RS if they are available for download from our website - we are constantly updating our 3D CAD Model library so you may be able to get one soon.
Q - My CAD system is not able to display meta data from the 3D CAD Model file - what can I do?
A - As part of the download there is a text file containing the part information - try importing that into your CAD systems BOM (Bill of Material) manager.
Q - Why are the 3D CAD Models only shown in grey?
A - Most models are provided in a generic colour to minimise the impact on computer resources and provide the quickest response.
Q - Can I import 3D models into DesignSpark PCB?
A - As DesignSpark PCB is a 2D drawing package, it cannot import 3D models. However, it is possible to import some of the 2D models that are available from RS.
Q - Which 2D drawing format can be imported into DesignSpark PCB?
A - Drawings in DXF format can be imported into DesignSpark PCB. Select "2D DXF 13" when downloading the drawing.
Q - Is a tutorial available to demonstrate importing 2D drawings into DesignSpark PCB?
A - Yes, please visit www.designspark.com.
Q - Can I export 3D models from DesignSpark PCB?
A - DesignSpark PCB can export files in an IDF format. This can be converted into a format readable by 3D CAD Software Suites. Visit www.designspark.com for more details.
Q - I have never tried 3D modelling. Is there an easy and cheap way for me to give it a try?
A - DesignSpark Mechanical a free 3D design tool published by RS Components. The tool can be downloaded free of charge from http://www.designspark.com/mechanical/. To learn more about using the tool, visit Designspark at www.designspark.com/mechanical >.
