Hi

The company I work for have a big need for doing CFD analyses on different machines. We design and build potato process machines like fryers, blanchers, and dryers for big plants.

We intend to start to use a CFD program. I am a novice at CFD analysis but have done some stress calc. in Ansys years ago. I have a University MSC degree so I have the basic understanding for FEA.

My question is: Is it reasonable to think that we can learn to do CFD analysis with some weeks training. What program should we buy, easiest to learn? Costs involved?

Regards Magnus

Magnus:

I think your best bet is to list the "types" of problems that you intend to analyze. Put another way, what do you want to analyze? List all of your intentions first and this may eliminate some of the codes on the market. The next thing to consider, where is the geometry coming from, a CAD tool? Some CFD codes work directly with the CAD geometry and this can be a true time saver. The next step, start calling on some of the CFD vendors and ask them for test cases etc that show similar problems. Last, always include training and perhaps mentoring before you dive into a production level project. For example, you could consider having the CFD vendor work through your first project along with you and use this as a learning experience. Feel free to email me direct if you have additional questions.

cheers,

derrek

Good advice from Derrek. Another consideration - know upfront what type of information you absolutely require from the CFD output. Otherwise, the vendors will dazzle you with all types of pretty pictures that have absolutely no bearing on what you need.

Being a "novice" in CFD, I would strongly suggest that it will take significantly longer than 1 or 2 weeks of training to fully understand a system. No matter how automated a system is, you as a user must be aware of how all of your choices affect your particular simulation. Unfortunately, this is often only found with experience. Of course you may be up and running in the time frame you mentioned, but would suggest a steep learning curve that will extend months.

Magnus,

CFD-ACE+ from CFD Research Corporation (CFDRC) has been used for several years by a major chip producer to model the process of making chips from dough extrusion to frying. CFDRC has also performed several consulting projects for chip producers and equipment suppliers ranging from dough extrusion to fryer oil flow patterns and fryer heating design.

Our software is well-suited for simulating potato chip process machines and our personnel are familiar with the industry. CFD-ACE+ is easy to use, but as "Derrek" mentioned, the best way to accelerate the learning curve is to start with a consulting project. CFD-ACE+ has a Simulation Manager that facilitates parametric runs and optimization. An initial project could be performed with parametric geometry, mesh and boundary conditions. After receiving the files one could then get straight into the analysis phase instead of spending time with geometry and mesh creation.

Michael Showalter Group Leader Technical Marketing CFD Research Corp. (www.cfdrc.com) Tel: 256-726-4939