Is it possible to explode an assembly to see all its internal parts in SolidWorks?
Short Answer
Yes — in SolidWorks, you can explode an assembly to reveal internal parts by creating an exploded view in the ConfigurationManager. This is the most common professional method for inspecting and presenting assembly structure without deleting mates or modifying part geometry. Limitation: it is a visual arrangement, not a true cutaway section.
What You Need to Know Before
Warning: Exploding a solidworks assembly does not automatically make every internal part visible if outer components still block the view. Large assemblies can also rebuild slowly, and dragging components too far may make the exploded view confusing or unusable for drawings.
How to Explode an Assembly to See Internal Parts
Command: Exploded View
Shortcut: No default keyboard shortcut
Quick Steps:
- Open the assembly, then go to the ConfigurationManager tab in the FeatureManager area, right-click the active configuration, and choose New Exploded View.
- Select the components you want to move, then drag the triad handle or enter a distance value to separate them from the assembly.
- In the Explode PropertyManager, enable the exploded step as needed, then click Done to save the exploded view.
Variables & Settings
Key Setting: Auto-space components on drag
This option helps distribute components more clearly while creating exploded steps. Use controlled distances instead of excessive dragging when you need a clean exploded assembly for documentation or internal part review.
Why it Fails
Cause 1 (Geometry): Internal parts may still be hidden because exploded components were moved in the wrong direction or not far enough to clear surrounding geometry.
Cause 2 (layers/Locks): Components may be fixed, suppressed, or controlled by assembly constraints that limit practical movement during explode planning.
Cause 3 (Command/Logic): An exploded view only repositions components; it does not section the model or automatically expose nested internal parts behind closed housings.
Quick Fix & Best Practice
- Quick Fix: Create an Exploded View first, then add a section view if outer components still block the internal parts.
- Manager’s Verdict: Use exploded views for assembly communication, service manuals, and bom drawings; avoid relying on them alone when you need precise internal inspection of enclosed components.
FAQ
Can I explode only selected parts in SolidWorks?
Yes, you can create exploded steps using only the components you select.
Does exploding an assembly break mates permanently?
No, the exploded view is saved separately and does not permanently delete mates.
Can I use an exploded view in a solidworks drawing?
Yes, exploded views are commonly inserted into assembly drawing views.
.