Is it possible to create a custom material library in SolidWorks?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — in SolidWorks, you can create a custom material library using Edit Material and save it as a separate .sldmat file for reuse across parts and assemblies. This is the most common professional method for standardizing density, appearance, and custom properties. Limitation: the library is file-based, so path management matters.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: If your custom material library is stored on a local or moved network path, SolidWorks may lose the link and materials can appear missing in other files. Also, editing the default SolidWorks materials directly is risky because updates or reinstalls can overwrite changes.

How to Create a Custom Material Library in SolidWorks

  • Command: Edit Material

  • Shortcut: No default keyboard shortcut

  • Quick Steps:

    1. In the FeatureManager design tree, right-click Material or the current material under the part name, then click Edit Material.
    2. In the Material dialog, right-click a library or material category in the left panel and choose New Library or New Category.
    3. Create your material, then enter properties such as Density, Elastic Modulus, and other values, and save the .sldmat file to a shared or controlled folder.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Material dialog > Custom Materials library path / .sldmat file location

  • Expert Setting: Store the custom material library in a stable network location or PDM-managed folder so all users reference the same .sldmat file. This prevents broken library links and keeps mass properties and simulation data consistent across teams.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): The part may not update expected mass results if the material is assigned but the body configuration or solid body selection is not the one being evaluated.

  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): The .sldmat file may be read-only, in a locked network folder, or controlled by PDM permissions, which prevents saving edits.

  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Users often edit a material in session but do not save it into a new custom library, or they modify the default library instead of creating a separate reusable one.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Use Edit Material, create a New Library, and save the .sldmat file in a shared folder with write access before assigning the material.

  • Manager’s Verdict: Use a custom material library when your team needs consistent mass, bom, and simulation properties. Avoid editing the shipped SolidWorks library directly; keep a separate controlled library for company standards.

FAQ

Can I share a custom material library with other SolidWorks users?
Yes, by sharing the same .sldmat file path.

Can custom materials include appearance data?
Yes, a custom material can store visual appearance as well as physical properties.

Can I use custom materials in Simulation?
Yes, if the required mechanical properties are properly defined.

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