Do mechanical engineer need to use AutoCAD?

Question

I apply for internship in an air conditional (York) company. And it stated there have a knowledge of AutoCAD is an advantage.

I thought we as a mechanical engineer don't use AutoCAD, instead we use Solidworks. As SW is easier for 3D modelling. AutoCAD is more for the architects and civil engineers.

Can anyone tell me why AutoCAD is still prefered instead of SW?

Answer 1

No AutoCAD is good for generating 2D drawings, Solidworks is good for 3D modelling, Autodesk's answer to Solidworks is Autodesk Inventor. For your role they will want you to create 2D engineering drawings, like drafting. So you will draw out the parts individually and give them their dimensions and tolerances. They will also want an assembly drawing with all parts assembled and a bill of materials. Sometimes AutoCAD is often favored because of the file-type; .dwg which is compatable with a lot of CAM and Design software. I agree with you that Solidworks is better than AutoCAD because you can generate 2D drawings from the 3D model with an ease. With the 3D model you can then use simulation to test for fatigue, stress and strain which helps with improving the overall life-cycle of a part or product.

Answer 2

AutoCAD=2D

Solidworks=3D



AutoCAD is used and required in pretty much All construction related jobs in HVAC, plumbing, and structural engineering.



I work in manufacturing now where we use both AutoCAD and Solidworks. We use Solidworks for looking at products and finding quality issues. AutoCAD is used in tooling fixture design or changing the layout of a flow line or office cubicles using CAD drawings.



Some companies don't use AutoCad, but most do. Some don't use Solidworks. They use Pro-E instead of some other software. Some use Revit instead of AutoCAD.

Answer 3

Many companies use AutoCAD, Solid Works or Pro-E... You will need to learn them all in time. they are not hard to learn...