# Elmer FEM solver

> partial differential equations which Elmer solves by the Finite Element Method

**Wikidata**: [Q1332915](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1332915)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmer_FEM_solver)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/elmer-fem-solver

## Summary
Elmer FEM solver is a free, open-source software package for solving partial differential equations (PDEs) using the Finite Element Method (FEM), primarily used in scientific and engineering applications. It is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL) and runs on Linux operating systems. Elmer supports multi-physics simulations and is developed in Fortran, with modern versions incorporating additional programming languages and tools.

## Key Facts
- **License**: GNU General Public License (GPL).
- **Primary Use**: Solving partial differential equations via the Finite Element Method for scientific and engineering applications.
- **Programming Languages**: Fortran, C, and Python.
- **Operating System**: Primarily Linux.
- **Latest Version**: 26.1 (released January 23, 2026).
- **GUI Toolkits**: Tk and Qt.
- **File Formats**: Reads/writes ElmerGrid input data (versions 1 and 2).
- **Repository**: Hosted on GitHub at [https://github.com/ElmerCSC/elmerfem](https://github.com/ElmerCSC/elmerfem).
- **Website**: [http://www.elmerfem.org/](http://www.elmerfem.org/) (primary) and [https://www.csc.fi/elmer](https://www.csc.fi/elmer).

## FAQs
### Q: What is Elmer FEM solver used for?
A: Elmer FEM solver is used for simulating and solving partial differential equations (PDEs) in fields such as fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and structural mechanics, leveraging the Finite Element Method.

### Q: Is Elmer FEM solver free to use?
A: Yes, Elmer is free software distributed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), allowing users to run, modify, and redistribute the software.

### Q: What operating systems does Elmer support?
A: Elmer primarily runs on Linux, though it may be adaptable to other Unix-like systems. It is not explicitly restricted to Linux but is most commonly associated with it.

## Why It Matters
Elmer FEM solver is significant for democratizing access to advanced simulation tools in science and engineering. As open-source software, it reduces barriers to entry for researchers, educators, and students who require finite element analysis without proprietary licensing constraints. Its multi-physics capabilities enable simulations across diverse domains, from thermal analysis to fluid flow, supporting innovation in both academic and industrial contexts. By providing a flexible, customizable platform, Elmer fosters collaboration and accelerates problem-solving in fields reliant on numerical modeling. Its longevity (with active development since the 1990s) and community-driven improvements further solidify its role as a trusted tool for computational modeling.

## Notable For
- **Open-Source Accessibility**: Free to use, modify, and distribute under the GPL, promoting transparency and collaboration.
- **Multi-Physics Simulations**: Capable of addressing coupled physical phenomena (e.g., thermodynamics, electromagnetism).
- **Fortran Foundation with Modern Integration**: Combines legacy Fortran code with contemporary programming tools (C, Python) and GUI frameworks (Tk, Qt).
- **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: Primarily Linux-based but adaptable to other systems through community ports (e.g., FreeBSD, MacPorts).
- **Academic and Industrial Adoption**: Supported by institutions like the Finnish IT Center for Science (CSC) and used in research and practical engineering applications.

## Body
### Overview
Elmer FEM solver is a computational toolkit for solving partial differential equations (PDEs) using the Finite Element Method. It is designed for multi-physics simulations, enabling users to model complex interactions between physical phenomena such as heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and structural mechanics. The software is developed collaboratively, with contributions from researchers and engineers globally.

### Licensing and Availability
- **License**: GNU General Public License (GPL), ensuring user freedoms to run, study, share, and modify the software.
- **Cost**: Free to download and use, with source code hosted publicly on GitHub.
- **Distribution**: Available via repositories like MacPorts (`elmerfem`) and FreeBSD ports (`science/elmerfem`).

### Technical Details
- **Programming Languages**: Core components are written in Fortran, with supplementary tools in C and Python.
- **File Formats**: Utilizes ElmerGrid input data formats (versions 1 and 2) for mesh and simulation configuration.
- **User Interface**: Offers graphical interfaces built with Tk and Qt, alongside command-line tools for scripting and automation.

### Versions
- **Version 9.0**: Released November 11, 2020, marking a major update with enhanced solver capabilities.
- **Version 26.1**: Released January 23, 2026, reflecting ongoing development and community support.

### Community and Development
- **Repository**: Hosted on GitHub ([https://github.com/ElmerCSC/elmerfem](https://github.com/ElmerCSC/elmerfem)), facilitating open collaboration.
- **Support**: Maintained by the Finnish IT Center for Science (CSC) and supported through forums and documentation on [elmerfem.org](http://www.elmerfem.org/).
- **Localization**: Documentation and resources available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Russian.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.elmerfem.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=7248)
2. [Release Elmer FEM v26.1](https://github.com/ElmerCSC/elmerfem/releases/tag/release-26.1)
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. [Source](https://svnweb.freebsd.org/ports?view=revision&revision=523122)