PV Elite
Hexagon PV Elite is the most-used software for pressure vessel and heat exchanger design and code compliance — ASME VIII Div 1/2, PD 5500, EN 13445, and many others — with integrated wind/seismic load handling.
Full Pricing Breakdown
Key Capabilities
Technical Audit
The Pros
- De facto industry standard for ASME pressure vessel design
- Comprehensive code library
- Direct material report and fabrication drawing output
The Cons
- Windows-only
- Subscription only — perpetual licenses no longer sold
- Add-on modules can stack up the price
CADGuide Verdict
Final Professional Conclusion
"If you design pressure vessels, you have PV Elite installed. End of discussion."
Expert Q&A
?What is PV Elite used for?
Pressure vessel and heat exchanger design and code-compliance checking. PV Elite is a CAE / CAM solution widely adopted in Oil & Gas, Chemical, Power.
?How much does PV Elite cost?
PV Elite starts at $6,500 per seat on a subscription license. Volume, network, and educational tiers are typically available — contact the vendor for an enterprise quote.
?Is there a free version of PV Elite?
PV Elite is a commercial product without a free permanent tier. Most vendors offer a 15-30 day evaluation on request; verified educational seats are typically free for students.
?What operating systems does PV Elite support?
PV Elite runs on Windows.
?Which file formats does PV Elite support?
PV Elite works with standard CAE / CAM interchange formats including STEP, IGES, and native NC formats. Check the vendor's official documentation for the complete list of supported import and export options.
?What are the best alternatives to PV Elite?
The closest alternatives within the CAE/CAM space are ANSYS Discovery, Altair Inspire, Bentley STAAD.Pro. The right fit depends on whether you prioritise file-format compatibility, geometry kernel, ecosystem of plugins, or pricing model — compare them side-by-side using the CADGuide comparison tool.
