Because of the consumer demand for faster and more efficient transportation systems that are also environmentally friendly, the world of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is rapidly expanding.
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What Is Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)?
CFD is a science that uses powerful digital computers to simulate and replicate one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional fluid flows in a virtual realm.
A CFD software aids in the performance of simulations that are as close to real-world conditions as possible and in the comprehension of the results by producing numbers, equations, and conclusions in a human-readable format. Given below are the stages of becoming a CFD Engineer.
Stage 1: Learn the Fundamentals of CFD
As a newcomer to the world of engineering, there are two things you should be aware of when it comes to CFD.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
As a beginner, you should begin by familiarising yourself with the CFD software’s graphical user interface (GUI). Star CCM+, Open Foam, and SOLIDWORKS are examples of popular CFD software programmes.
To become acquainted with GUI, enrol in one of our Skill-Lynccourses on introducing CFD using SOLIDWORKS. This one-month GUI-based course lasts one month.
A GUI-based course means that you don’t have to worry about the math. First-year students can grasp all concepts simply by running simulations and interacting with the graphics provided by the software.
Mathematics
Once you’re comfortable with the physics of CFD, you can move on to the mathematics involved. Math is essential in CFD because the Navier-Stokes equation and partial differential equation, is the only way to define a fluid flow in a computer.
This partial differential equation does not yet have a solution, and it is nearly impossible for a human to solve it manually in a lifetime. As a result, powerful computers assist us in making good approximations, resulting in a result closer to the real-world scenario.
Stage 2: Mastering the GUI
This is when you begin to specialise in the graphical user interface (GUI). There are five types of regimes:
- ANSYS Fluent for CFD
- Aerodynamics with the Star CCM+
- Advanced integrated circuit engines
- Air Conditioning and Heat Ventilation (HVAC)
- Turbo Equipment
You will learn about many CFD concepts here, such as combustion modelling, spray modelling, and emission modelling.
Once you’ve mastered a GUI to the point where when you click a button on the screen, you understand the math done in the back end, you can advance to the next stage.
Stage 3: Advance to Complex Programming
Once you’ve mastered the mathematical fundamentals of CFD and are comfortable interacting with any GUI, you can move on to solving complex problems with advanced programming techniques. Here are two options:
- Python and Cantera for computational combustion
- C++ finite volume method for advanced CFD
This stage is especially beneficial for people who want to work as software developers for companies like ANSYS.
