Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Principles and Applications

INTRODUCTION

Understanding fluid behaviour is essential for designing efficient and innovative systems across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, chemical processing, and biomedical. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) enables engineers and researchers to simulate and analyse fluid flow, heat transfer, and other related phenomena using advanced numerical methods. This course provides an engaging and practical introduction to CFD, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to address complex fluid dynamics challenges.

CFD has transformed engineering by minimising the need for expensive physical testing and facilitating rapid design iterations. By simulating fluid flow in virtual environments, engineers can optimise product designs, predict system performance, and identify potential issues before manufacturing starts. This course demystifies the complexities of CFD and provides a step-by-step approach to help you confidently set up, run, and study simulations.

We begin by exploring the core principles of fluid dynamics and heat transfer, concentrating on the governing equations describing fluid behaviour. Participants will gain insight into how these equations are translated into computational models. As the course advances, you’ll learn best practices for geometry creation, mesh generation, solver selection, and post-processing of results.

Equally important is understanding how to interpret and validate simulation results against experimental or theoretical data. This course will guide you through validation techniques, ensuring that your simulations are accurate and reliable. You will also explore optimisation strategies to enhance design performance and identify the key parameters affecting system efficiency.

By the end of this course, you will have a solid foundation in CFD and the confidence to apply it to practical engineering challenges. Whether you are an engineer, researcher, or student looking to expand your analytical capabilities, this course provides the knowledge and tools to make CFD an essential part of your skill set.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

By the end of this course, participants will be able to: 

·       Understand the fundamental principles of fluid dynamics and heat transfer. 

·       Formulate and solve fluid flow problems using numerical methods. 

·       Set up and execute CFD simulations using industry-standard software. 

·       Generate high-quality meshes and define appropriate boundary conditions for accurate simulations. 

·       Analyse and interpret simulation results to optimise fluid system performance. 

·       Validate CFD results and understand the limitations of computational models. 

·       Apply advanced techniques for turbulence modelling, multiphysics simulations, and design optimisation.

COURSE OUTLINE

Module 1: Fundamentals of Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer

• Introduction to fluid properties and flow classifications
• Governing equations: Navier-Stokes, continuity, and energy equations
• Understanding flow regimes: Laminar, turbulent, and compressible flows
• Heat transfer mechanisms (conduction, convection, and radiation)
• Practical exercise: Analyze simple fluid flow problems using analytical methods

Module 2: Introduction to Cfd and Simulation Workflow

• Overview of the CFD process: Pre-processing, solving, and post-processing
• Key components of a successful CFD simulation
• Introduction to CFD software and interface navigation
• Setting up a basic simulation: Geometry creation, meshing, and boundary conditions
• Hands-on activity: Run your first CFD simulation and visualize flow results

Module 3: Numerical Methods and Solver Techniques

• Discretization methods: Finite difference, finite element, and finite volume techniques
• Stability, accuracy, and convergence criteria
• Solver selection and configuration for different types of flow problems
• Time-stepping schemes for transient simulations
• Practical task: Implement a simple numerical scheme for 1D flow simulation

Module 4: Meshing and Boundary Condition Setup

• Importance of mesh quality in CFD simulations
• Types of meshes: Structured, unstructured, and hybrid meshes
• Mesh refinement strategies for improved accuracy
• Defining boundary conditions and initial conditions for realistic simulations
• Lab session: Generate a high-quality mesh for a complex geometry

Module 5: Turbulence Modeling and Heat Transfer Analysis

• Introduction to turbulence and its impact on fluid flow
• Standard turbulence models: k-epsilon, k-omega, and LES (Large Eddy Simulation)
• Heat transfer analysis in CFD simulations
• Case study: Simulating and analyzing thermal management in a heat exchanger
• Practical project: Compare different turbulence models for an aerodynamic problem

Module 6: Post-Processing and Validation Techniques

• Visualizing results: Streamlines, contour plots, and vector fields
• Quantitative analysis of key flow parameters (velocity, pressure, and temperature)
• Techniques for identifying and interpreting anomalies in simulations
• Validation methods: Comparing CFD results with experimental or theoretical data
• Hands-on lab: Generate a comprehensive post-processing report with key insights

Module 7: Advanced Applications and Design Optimization

• Multiphysics simulations: Coupling CFD with structural and thermal analysis
• Parametric studies and sensitivity analysis for design optimization
• Introduction to fluid-structure interaction (FSI)
• Emerging trends in CFD: AI-driven simulation and cloud-based solutions
• Capstone project: Simulate, optimize, and present a real-world fluid dynamics challenge

TARGET AUDIENCE

This course is tailored for: 

• Mechanical, aerospace, and Civil Engineers 
• Energy and Process Engineers 
• Researchers and Academics 
• Product Design Engineers  
• Graduate Students