Flow analysis (CFD)
Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) allows complex flow phenomena to be analysed and visualised in three dimensions. Effects that cannot be captured experimentally, or only at extreme expense, can be calculated and visualised as colour plots using flow simulation. The results significantly deepen the understanding of the product. We carry out realistic flow simulations for you. Simulation saves time and money, because there is no need to build and test expensive prototypes.
Within a simulation project we offer our clients a detailed analysis of the fluid dynamics problem in question. The analyses are based on the 3D CAD geometry supplied by the client and the relevant boundary conditions. The results are presented clearly and graphically in an analysis report that answers the question posed. Where unfavourable flow conditions and optimisation potential emerge, the evaluation naturally also includes proposals for optimising your design.
Some of the topics we cover are presented below.
Internal and external flow
In internal or external flow, particular flow regimes can arise within the flow domain depending on the Reynolds number.
Flow simulation enables us to compute any flow field realistically. Simulations can be laminar or turbulent.
The flow medium (liquid or gas) is described by a suitable constitutive law, which defines among other things whether the medium behaves compressibly or incompressibly.
The results include the pressure and velocity distribution of the medium within the flow domain. In addition, characteristic flow quantities can be determined, such as the flow coefficient (Kv value), the resistance coefficient (zeta value), the drag coefficient (Cd value) and the lift coefficient (Cl value).
Flow simulation of a butterfly valve
Heat transfer / temperature fields
Temperature fields can be calculated as part of a flow simulation. To compute the temperature field, the simulation model includes the relevant solid bodies alongside the flow domain.
Heat transfer between solid and fluid is calculated at every location from the local flow velocities and the material properties. Besides convection, conduction and radiation can also be taken into account.
The analyses can be carried out either as steady-state or as transient (time-dependent).
Rotating machinery
An important field of application for flow simulation is the analysis of rotating machinery. We have extensive experience in simulating and optimising rotating machines.
The simulation can be steady-state or transient. Any constitutive law can be defined for the medium (compressible/incompressible, single- or multiphase). The aim of such analyses is very often to increase performance, optimise efficiency, or prevent cavitation.
Optimisation potential can be identified clearly from the simulation results, and measures derived from them.
Pressure distribution on an agitator
Velocity of the medium in a volute pump casing
Further fields of application for flow simulation
Besides the tasks described above, we have experience in the flow simulation of:
- free surfaces, e.g. sloshing
- multiphase flow and phase change, e.g. cavitation
- supersonic flow
- smoke extraction simulation
- mixing and separation processes
- moving meshes
- cooling of electrical components
- coupled CFD/FEA analysis
Filling simulation of a tank
Smoke extraction simulation of an underground car park
Have we caught your interest?
Then get in touch and we will get back to you promptly.
