Hi all, I am in the proccess of assesing software for CFD modeling. I have some experience in Star CD but I have no experience on others such as CFX or Fluent. My main task will be heat transfer optimisation in vented brake discs. I've mainly got two questions:

1) easyness of usage? (among CFX, Star CD and Fluent). Considering that my budget does not cover any training.

2) Does anyone know if any of these firms may allow "student or university" releases for free or for low cost?... in return, of course, they would be able to publish any achievable good result.

3) Does any of you have experienced IDEAS as CFD modeler? (sorry about this question, but I have to do it, jus for the sake of generality).

I very much appreciate your comments (any) on this.

Carlos (research student)

Have a look at the statements posted here in former times. All needed answers can be found there serveral times.

Not directly related to your specific problem. But the paper below explains the process of choosing software. STARCD vs. FLUENT.

"Commercial CFD Software Capabilities for Modeling Burst Release of a Pollutant in Large Indoor Spaces," Proceedings Indoor Air 99, 8th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, August 8-13, Edinburgh, UK. Published by IAIAS. LBNL-42716.

-Joe