Detailed module information
Module information on this degree can be found below, separated by year of study.
The module information below applies for the current academic year. The academic year runs from August to July; the 'current year' switches over at the end of July.
Students select optional courses subject to rules specified in the Mechanical Engineering Student Handbook, for example at most three Design and Business courses. Please note that numbers are limited on some optional courses and selection criteria will apply.
Computational Fluid Dynamics
Module aims
The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) module deals with the governing equations for heat and fluid flow problems and with the numerical methods that cover domain and equation discretisation, including sources and sinks, with the main focus on the finite volume approach. Topics include numerical schemes for steady and unsteady diffusion and convection problems, pressure correction algorithms, iteration and convergence, errors and accuracy, benefits and limitations. Overview of commercial CFD packages and their applications is also provided.
ECTS = 5
Learning outcomes
On completing this module students will be able to:
1. Discuss in depth — using appropriate terminology — the principles and methods of Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques and their implications on the accuracy and stability of their result.
2. Discuss the thermo-fluids phenomena illustrated in specific problems for CFD solution, and their practical applications.
3. Solve a theoretical thermo-fluids problem, developing a simple code in Matlab.
4. Solve a practical thermo-fluids problems using an industry-standard software package.
5. Interpret the output from the two codes critically and intelligently in order to yield the required information.
6. Communicate the results of a CFD study in a formal written report and a presentation.
Module syllabus
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- Introduction
- Review of the equations of motion for fluid flow and heat and mass transfer.
- Finite volume solution of the conservation equation for a scalar quantity
- Solution algorithms for discrete equations (explicit, implicit, iterative, direct, factored); convection term discretisation - the extremum principle, boundedness, upwind, QUICK and TVD schemes.
- The Navier-Stokes equations: governing equations, grid and storage arrangements; discretisation; solution - simultaneous satisfaction of momentum and continuity, calculation of pressure (the SIMPLE algorithm).
- Best practice guidelines: sources of errors and uncertainties, check-list for calculations.
Pre-requisites
Teaching methods
Students will be introduced to the main topics through lectures (1hr per week, term 1), supported by technology (PowerPoint, Panapto and Blackboard). You will be provided with problem solving sheets and should complete these as part of your independent study. Tutorials sessions (1hr per week, term 1) will provide an opportunity for interaction with teaching staff where you can discuss specific problems. In term 2, teaching takes place in computing rooms, where students undertake two projects (individual using MATLAB and group using Star-CCM+, respectively).
Assessments
| Assessment details | ||||
| Pass mark | ||||
| Grading method | Numeric | 50% | ||
| Assessments | ||||
| Assessment type | Assessment description | Weighting | Pass mark | Must pass? |
| Examination | 1.5 Hour exam | 38% | 50% | N |
| Coursework | Individual MATLAB Project report | 28% | 50% | N |
| Coursework | Group STAR-CCM+ Project | 28% | 50% | N |
| Practical | Group presentation | 8% | 50% | N |