HydroCAD
UnclaimedThe competitive edge in hydrology & hydraulics software for stormwater modeling.
Visit WebsiteTL;DR - HydroCAD
- Specialized CAD tool for stormwater runoff modeling.
- Offers comprehensive hydrology and hydraulics calculations.
- Designed for civil engineers, providing ease of use and cost-efficiency.
Pricing: Paid only
Best for: Enterprises & pros
4.1/5 across review platforms
What is HydroCAD?
HydroCAD is a Computer Aided Design (CAD) tool specifically engineered for civil engineers to model stormwater runoff. It provides a comprehensive suite of hydrology and hydraulics capabilities, including SCS, NRCS, SBUH runoff hydrology, Rational Method with automatic IDF curves, and advanced flow simulations. The software is designed to simplify complex calculations, offering features like automatic pond storage, culvert calculations, and the ability to model underground storage systems.
HydroCAD is ideal for a wide range of users, from small private engineering firms and solo engineers to large multi-office firms, educational institutions, and government agencies involved in project review and design. It aims to significantly accelerate hydrology and hydraulics studies, making it a powerful yet intuitive tool for professionals needing to analyze and design stormwater management systems.
The product emphasizes ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and robust performance, running efficiently on any Windows PC without requiring additional CAD software. Its flexible licensing options, including simultaneous user licensing, and dedicated customer support contribute to its value proposition for long-term customer satisfaction.
Available on: Windows
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Intuitive and easy to understand, even for new users.
- Offers a superior cost-to-benefit ratio compared to alternatives.
- Flexible licensing allows installation on multiple computers with simultaneous user management.
- Comprehensive technical support via web and email, often with quick responses.
- Frequent, feature-rich software updates included with maintenance or annual licenses.
Cons
- Specific limitations on node count for lower-priced licenses.
- Maintenance plan required for ongoing free updates and extended support after 90 days.
Ratings Across the Web
4.1(20 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
SCS, NRCS, and SBUH runoff hydrologyRational Method with automatic IDF curvesLocal rainfall data and built-in rainfall libraryManagement and reporting of multiple rainfall eventsUnlimited hydrograph pointsHydrograph routing through ponds and reachesCoupled ponds with automatic tailwaterAutomatic hydraulics and culvert calculations
Pricing
Paid
HydroCAD offers paid plans. Visit their website for current pricing details.
Reviews
4.1/5
Across 20 verified user reviews on g2, capterra
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HydroCAD FAQ
How does HydroCAD assist civil engineers in stormwater management?
HydroCAD is a CAD tool specifically engineered for civil engineers to model stormwater runoff. It provides a comprehensive suite of hydrology and hydraulics capabilities, including SCS, NRCS, SBUH runoff hydrology, Rational Method with automatic IDF curves, and advanced flow simulations to simplify complex calculations.
What kind of user benefits most from HydroCAD?
HydroCAD is ideal for a wide range of users, from small private engineering firms and solo engineers to large multi-office firms, educational institutions, and government agencies. It is designed for professionals needing to analyze and design stormwater management systems efficiently.
How does HydroCAD compare to SketchUp for design tasks?
HydroCAD is specifically engineered as a CAD tool for stormwater modeling with hydrology and hydraulics capabilities, unlike SketchUp which is a general-purpose 3D modeling software. HydroCAD focuses on simplifying complex calculations for stormwater runoff analysis and design.
What are the primary limitations of HydroCAD?
HydroCAD has specific limitations on node count for its lower-priced licenses. Additionally, a maintenance plan is required for ongoing free updates and extended support beyond the initial 90-day period.
How is HydroCAD priced?
HydroCAD is a paid product and does not include a permanently free tier. It offers flexible licensing options, including simultaneous user licensing, to accommodate various organizational needs.
Can HydroCAD model underground stormwater storage systems?
Yes, HydroCAD is capable of modeling underground storage systems. It also includes features for automatic pond storage and culvert calculations to support comprehensive stormwater design.
Source: hydrocad.net