Fluxant vs PolyWorks Inspector
PolyWorks Inspector is the enterprise standard for dimensional inspection and metrology, used in automotive, aerospace, and precision manufacturing. At $10-15K per seat, it offers deep GD&T analysis, CMM integration, and certified measurement workflows. Fluxant provides free browser-based deviation inspection for quick checks and accessible quality analysis.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Fluxant | PolyWorks Inspector |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | $10,000 - $15,000 / seat |
| Platform | Browser (any OS) | Windows only |
| File Formats | STL, OBJ, PLY, STEP, glTF | All major scan + CAD formats |
| Mesh Repair | Automated | Limited (inspection focus) |
| STEP Support | Import & export | Full import |
| AI Analysis | Built-in | No |
| Deviation Inspection | Mesh-to-CAD | Full GD&T, color maps, reports |
| CAD Macro Output | SolidWorks, Fusion, FreeCAD | Inspection reports only |
| Privacy | Client-side | Desktop (local) |
| Install Required | No | Yes (Windows installer) |
| CMM Integration | No | Full hardware integration |
| GD&T Analysis | No | Comprehensive |
| Certified Reports | No | Industry-standard reports |
Key Differences
- Metrology depth: PolyWorks is a full metrology suite with GD&T evaluation, datum references, tolerance stacks, and certified reporting. Fluxant provides basic deviation inspection only.
- Hardware integration: PolyWorks connects directly to CMMs, laser trackers, and portable arms. Fluxant works with file-based scan data only.
- Cost and access: PolyWorks requires a $10-15K license and Windows. Fluxant is free and runs in any browser, making it accessible for quick checks without enterprise procurement.
- CAD output: Fluxant can generate CAD rebuild macros from scan data. PolyWorks focuses on inspection reporting, not CAD reconstruction.
When to use PolyWorks Inspector
- Production quality control with GD&T requirements
- CMM, laser tracker, or portable arm integration
- Generating certified inspection reports for customers or regulators
- First article inspection (FAI) workflows
- Statistical process control across production batches
When to use Fluxant
- Quick deviation checks without a $15K license
- Comparing a scan to a STEP reference in seconds
- Sharing inspection results with teammates who do not have PolyWorks
- Working from a Mac, Linux, or Chromebook
- Combining inspection with mesh repair and CAD macro generation
- Early-stage prototyping where formal GD&T is not yet required