PLAXIS 3D

Modeling  

• Import geometry from STEP, Parasolid, DWG or DXF CAD files. 
• Import structural elements and foundations from IFC BIM data 
• Define complex soil stratigraphy from imported borehole data. 
• Design and analyze tunnels with the dedicated tunnel designer tool. 
• Model structures like piles, anchors, geogrids, and shotcrete linings. 
• Use automatic 3D mesh generation with refinement for accuracy. 

Material models 

• Access an extensive library of advanced soil and rock material models 
• Use models like Mohr Coulomb, Hardening Soil, and Jointed Rock 
• Define joints and interfaces to model faults or soil-structure interaction 
• Model unsaturated soils or create your own with User-Defined Models 

Calculations  

• Simulate phased excavation and construction with staged construction 
• Analyze stability with safety analysis using the strength reduction method 
• Apply partial factors to loads and materials with Design Approaches 
• Model time-dependent changes in water levels, loads, and functions 
• Perform consolidation and coupled flow-deformation analysis 

Results 

• Visualize results in 3D with contour plots, vectors, and iso-surfaces 
• Create cross-sections to view results in a 2D plane 
• Generate detailed reports and export data in various formats 
• Use the Curve plotter to visualize relationships between data points 
• Create animations to visualize deformations over time 

Automation and performance 

• Leverage a multicore solver for faster calculation times 
• Automate tasks and create custom scripts with the Python API 
• Manage and queue multiple analyses with the Calculation Manager 
• Benefit from an intuitive and user-friendly interface 

Interoperability 

• Connect to ProjectWise for collaborative project data management 
• Couple with structural packages using super-elements for SSI analysis 
• Convert existing PLAXIS 2D models directly into PLAXIS 3D 
• Automate communication with other tools through the Python API 

Processor:

• Dual Core CPU required, Quad Core CPU recommended 

Operating System:

• Windows 10, Windows 11 

Memory:

• 8 GB recommended, large projects may require more 

Disk space:

• Minimum 2 GB free space on the partition where the WindowsTEMP directory resides, and 2 GB free space on the partition where projects are saved. Large projects may require significantly more space on both partitions. 
   

For best performance, ensure that the TEMP directory and the project directory reside on the same partition. 

Display : 

• Graphics Card: Required: GPU with 256 MB OpenGL 3.3 Bentley strongly recommends avoiding simple onboard graphics chips in favor of a discrete GPU from the nVidia GeForce or Quadro range with at least 128-bit bus and 1 GB of RAM, or equivalent solution from ATI/AMD. 
• Video: 1024 x 768 pixels 32-bit color palette required, 1920 x 1080 pixels 32-bit color palette recommended