Skip to main content
Tutorials & Tips

How to optimize complex assemblies in SOLIDWORKS?

How can you optimize the performance of complex (large and extensive) assemblies in SOLIDWORKS? If you have large and extensive SOLIDWORKS assemblies to manage, we offer several different approaches to help you optimize performance as much as possible. There are several techniques for managing large assemblies in SOLIDWORKS: Use subassemblies […]

January 22, 2023 3-minute read The Ohmycad Team
How to optimize complex assemblies in SOLIDWORKS?

How can you optimize the performance of complex assemblies (large and extensive) in SOLIDWORKS?

In the scenario where you have large and extensive assemblies SOLIDWORKS to manage, we offer you several different approaches to best optimize performance.

There are several techniques for managing large assemblies in SOLIDWORKS:

  1. Use subassemblies It is recommended to divide large assemblies into smaller sub-assemblies to facilitate the management and updating of parts. Sub-assemblies can be created using existing parts or by creating new specific parts. Another advantage of this technique is that it allows smaller assemblies to be reused for other projects.
  2. Using Assembly Configurations : Assembly configurations can be used to show or hide parts or subassemblies within an assembly, allowing you to work only with the parts you need at any given time. Configurations, whether in parts or assemblies, are among the most essential features for any designer or engineer to master. Take it from an engineer at sTechnical Support XDI 🙂
  3. Use performance management tools : SOLIDWORKS offers performance tools to optimize the performance of your assembly, such as removing unnecessary parts, reducing geometric complexity, optimizing part properties, and more. You can also use features that speed up file opening. It’s incredibly powerful!
  4. Use external links : You can link parts or subassemblies to a main assembly using external links, which allows you to update them independently without having to open them in the main assembly. This is the «skeleton» technique. It’s incredibly useful once you’ve mastered it.
  5. Use part references : You can create part references for recurring parts in the assembly, which makes it easier to manage them.
It is important to note that these techniques may vary depending on the complexity of your assembly and your knowledge of SOLIDWORKS. It is recommended to follow tutorials or training to master the different features of SOLIDWORKS.
You can view all of our Specific coaching and training on large assemblies in SOLIDWORKS, driven by our XDI experts
Take Action
Get an estimate for your SOLIDWORKS or CATIA license in 2 minutes
An immediate estimate, followed by Ohmycare support from a dedicated engineer.
Estimate my license
Tutorials & Tips
Share
Written by the Ohmycad team
The Leading 3DEXPERIENCE Expert Network, SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, 3DEXPERIENCE. Updated on July 30, 2026.