Multiphase modeling
CFD analysis enables simultaneous modeling of different phases in demanding industrial processes.
Utilizing flow simulation, multiple phases can be considered simultaneously: gas-liquid, gas-solid, and liquid-solid, or even all three phase forms at once. Simultaneous consideration of multiple phases is often essential for developing demanding processes and equipment, such as reactors or scrubbers.
Free surface (gas-liquid) modeling is utilized, for example, in ship hull calculations and mixer design. Particle simulations (gas-solid or liquid-solid) are well suited for modeling separation solutions and combustion. With large amounts of solids, there may also be a need to use DEM (Discrete Element Method) calculations, which can account for particle-particle interactions. DEM calculations can also examine interactions with the surrounding liquid or gas.
In heat transfer, phases and phase changes also have a significant impact on processes, where phenomena such as evaporation and condensation are important considerations.
The animation illustrates exhaust gas flow inside the exhaust pipe, where urea is injected downstream of a baffle plate. The urea mixes with the exhaust gas and is transported into a wider section, where it encounters catalyst surfaces and participates in chemical reactions that convert harmful exhaust components into harmless compounds (NOₓ → N₂ + H₂O). CFD simulations enable optimization of mixing, reaction conditions, and component geometry during the design phase, improving emission control while reducing the need for costly experimental development.
Services and competencies
- Particle calculations – DPM and DEM
- Free surface modeling – VOF
- Eulerian multiphase calculations
- Mixing tank optimization
- Chemical reactor design
- Separation method development
- Phase change modeling
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Ship simulation in rough seas
The Elomatic technical analysis team has been developing and testing the methods for ship hydrodynamics simulation in rough seas.
The ships sail most of the time in wave conditions which differ from the specified promised speed test conditions. The calm sea conditions are closer to reality for very big ships, as typical wave conditions and their impact remain relatively small. However, for a ship scale with a length of 100m and under, the wave impact on ship behavior becomes more essential. To design ships of that length and meet real conditions with as high performance as possible, the computational dynamics should be used as much as for calm sea conditions.
Finding the full potential of CFD
CFD, or Computational Fluid Dynamics, is a method that is often utilized only for the post-design phase, although it is very well suited for wider and efficient use throughout the design process. Optimal use of CFD analysis generally shortens projects’ lead times and improves product assessment. It also provides an excellent basis for preparing digital twins. In process modeling tasks, CFD is an excellent tool for studying the components, for example.
Not only colorful pictures – CFD saves time and money
Did you know that by using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) you can save as much as 80 % in design time and 60 % in design costs? During the past 20 years, I’ve been lucky enough to participate in many interesting simulation projects both in Finland and abroad and have seen how clients have received instant help. But what is CFD really? Where can it be applied and why should it be utilized?