The IGES neutral file format provides a way to transfer files between different CAD systems and to other applications that utilize CAD geometry. The examples below demonstrate using IGES to import solid part models into ANSYS for FEM analysis.

A solid model is created in Pro/E and exported as an IGES file using the Pro/E default settings (export surfaces). By sure the planar surface is created in the X-Y plane. Save a copy > IGES

File > Import > IGES (use the ANSYS default setting. If you have difficulty, try again with the alternate option.)

This brings the model into ANSYS as a solid.

To perform plane stress analysis on this part, we need to mesh the X-Y plane area of the part.

Meshing > Mesh > Areas > Free (Turn the solid around so you can see the X-Y plane and select that area for meshing.)

The imported solid model is no longer needed and may be deleted.

Delete > Volumes and below (Select the volume)

Provide material properties and loads to solve the FEM problem of interest.

A solid model created in Pro/E is imported into ANSYS as in the above.

Since it is the solid we want to analyze, we mesh the solid.

Meshing > Mesh > Volumes > Free (Select the solid)

Now provide the material properties, loads, and boundary conditions to solve the FEM problem of interest.