Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is the tool that gives you the power to

• Simulate the flow of gases, liquids, and solids

• Analyse heat and mass transfer

• Evaluate the effects of moving bodies

• Investigate multiphase interactions

• Model chemical reactions

• Support fluid-structure interaction (FSI) studies

• Explore acoustic phenomena

Using CFD software, you can create a 'virtual prototype' of the system or device that you wish to analyse and apply real-world physics and chemistry to it. The software then generates visualisations and other supporting data that predict the performance of the design under various conditions.

At its core, CFD solves the fundamental equations of mass, momentum, and energy conservation within a defined fluid domain. This domain is divided into a finite number of small volumes (cells), each influenced by constant or correlated conditions and constraints. By solving these equations across all cells, the software predicts the overall system behaviour.

The accuracy of the simulation is dependent upon the number of cells that have been used to describe the model. As the number increases the accuracy generally increases, as does the computational cost. In theory, an infinite number of cells would allow for an exact analytical solution - but current computational capabilities are not yet sufficient for this

There are three compelling reasons to use CFD software: insight, foresight, and efficiency.

Insight

If you have a device or system design which is difficult to prototype, challenging to test experimentally, or has underperformed in service, CFD analysis enables you to virtually explore its inner workings. CFD reveals phenomena that are often invisible through physical testing or observation, providing insights that would otherwise remain hidden. This deeper understanding helps you identify issues, optimise performance, and improve design confidence.

Foresight

Because CFD is a  predictive tool, it can quickly answer many "what if?" questions.  By defining a set of boundary conditions, you can simulate how your design will perform under various scenarios. Within a short time, CFD allows you to evaluate multiple design variations and identify the optimal solution—all before any physical prototyping or testing takes place.

Efficiency

The foresight gained from CFD enables faster, more efficient design, helping you reduce costs, meet environmental regulations, and ensure industry compliance. CFD analysis shortens design cycles, allowing products to reach the market more quickly. Additionally, equipment upgrades can be developed and implemented with minimal downtime. By compressing the design and development process, CFD supports rapid prototyping and accelerates the delivery of design enhancements to market.