Top CFD Software for Aerospace Applications and Integration with CAD Programs

In summary: Unstructured grids are also popular for research as they are more forgiving of errors.There are many different software packages that can be used for CFD. Some popular ones are FLUENT, GridPro, and ANSYS.
  • #1
aeroeng212
10
0
Hi-
I was wondering if anyone could talk a little bit about the top Computational Fluid Dynamics software out there today- specifically in the aerospace industry/for applications in aerodynamics.
Do they work in conjunction with CAD programs? If so, which are the leading programs (CATIA, PROENGINEER, AUTODESK, etc.)?
Thanks in advance for any help!

-aeroeng212
 
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  • #2
There are a whole bunch of packages see http://www.cfdreview.com/
Plus a lot of in house ones for very specialised applications or research.

They generally take a CAD model as input ( eg. iges, dxf ) from any CAD package.
You generally produce a simplified version of the model specific for the CFD measurement.
 
  • #3
FLUENT is the widest used package that I run into in my travels. On top of that, many companies, including mine, have proprietary codes that they rely heavily on for very specific application as well.
 
  • #4
Agreed with Fred. I've seen Fluent the most. And while the readily available commercial softwares are the easiest to use, the proprietary codes are (biased) arguably better since you know exactly what they are doing, though there is much room for debate there.
 
  • #5
well, any suggestions for software that should be used for meshing complex geometries?
 
  • #6
If you are writing your own package then Triangle (http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~quake/triangle.html) is pretty good.
The topic is called Delauney triangualtion, there are a few special features you want if it is specifically for CFD - triangles should be similair sized, have no small angles and be as nearly equilateral as possible.
 
  • #7
If your doing high-order,high-accuracy schemes, then you will (almost) need a structured grid. The package we use is GridPro, which is a pain in the ass, but works very well if you can use it.

However, for complex geometries, unstructured grids are all the rave as they are very easy to get.
 

1. What is CFD software and why is it important in aerospace applications?

CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) software is a computer program that uses numerical methods to simulate and analyze fluid flow and heat transfer. It is important in aerospace applications because it allows engineers to study and optimize the behavior of fluids around aircraft and spacecraft, which is crucial for design and safety.

2. Can CFD software be integrated with CAD programs?

Yes, many CFD software programs have the capability to be integrated with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) programs. This allows for a seamless transfer of geometry and other design data between the two software, making the CFD simulation process more efficient.

3. What are some top CFD software options for aerospace applications?

Some top CFD software options for aerospace applications include ANSYS Fluent, Siemens Star-CCM+, and OpenFOAM. Each of these programs offers advanced capabilities for simulating and analyzing fluid flow in complex aerospace systems.

4. How accurate are CFD simulations in predicting real-world fluid behavior?

CFD simulations are generally very accurate in predicting real-world fluid behavior. However, the accuracy of the simulation depends on the quality of the input data and assumptions made in the simulation. It is important for engineers to validate their CFD results with experimental data to ensure accuracy.

5. Can CFD software be used for both subsonic and supersonic flow simulations?

Yes, CFD software can be used for both subsonic and supersonic flow simulations. However, different numerical methods and models may need to be used for each type of flow. For example, subsonic flow is typically simulated using the Navier-Stokes equations, while supersonic flow may require additional models such as the Euler equations.

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