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Module Specifications..

Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024

Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title Computational Thermo-Fluid Dynamics
Module Code MM532
School School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Yan Delaure
Semester 2: Yan Delaure
Autumn: Yan Delaure
Module TeachersYan Delaure
NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 7.5
Pre-requisite MM432
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
None
The same assignments must be repeated and re-submitted.
Description

The objectives of this module are to provide a thorough description of the mathematical methods and numerical techniques used in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and to provide a practical experience in the use of a state of the art commercial modelling software. The module covers incompressible laminar and turbulent flow with heat transfer and involves both theoretical exercises and practical computational modelling of fluid and heat transfer problems.

Learning Outcomes

1. Interprete the theoretical foundations of core numerical methods and mathematical models found in Computational Fluid Dynamics
2. Select appropriate governing equation to model specific fluid or heat transfer problem and make appropriate simplification to allow discretisation and solution
3. Formulate and set-up CFD models for the solution of simple but realistic thermo-fluid problems
4. Appreciate the limitations and capabilities of the main models and solution methods available with state of the art CFD Softwares based on the Finite Volume Method
5. Quantify the order of accuracy of a CFD model based on the choice of discretisation scheme
6. Evaluate critically the quality of a mesh, model set-up and results
7. Propose improvements to existing model setup with a view to adressing specific issues including limited computational power or memory
8. Demonstrate the importance of careful validation by comparison with experimental and/or analytical solutions



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Lectures on Theoretical Foundation for CFD
Tutorial12Exercise based review of theory
Laboratory12Computer based guidance on CFD assignment
Assignment Completion50Study of laminar and turbulent flow over cylinder with critical review of state of the art modelling methods
Independent Study89.5No Description
Total Workload: 187.5

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Governing Equations
Derivation of the Navier-Stokes Equations from conservation laws and the Reynolds Transport Theorem to introduce the Finite Volume discretisation method from Integral equations.

Numerical schemes and order of accuracy analysis
The main discretisation schemes used in CFD are described and their order of accuracy are demonstrated

Solution of Linear Equation Systems and convergence issues
A broad range of diffusion and convection diffusion equations are discretised and iterative solution methods are descrtibed to highlight the importance of stability. Stability criteria a described and various schemes are tested for stability

Boundary conditions and numerical implementation
A range or physical boundary conditions are considered and suitable numerical implementations are demonstrated with practical examples

The Segregated solver and associated solution methods for the incompressible Navier Stokes Equations
The main solution methods for coupling of Navier Stokes equations are studied in detail and their relevance to CFD software studied.

Method for modelling heat transfer with incompressible flow
Issues related to the modelling of heat transfer problem are studied

Turbulence modelling
Practical engineering solutions to turbulence modelling are described and the main models are derived. This includes the derivation of the RANS equations and a description of the mixing length, k-ε and k-ω models

Guidelines for effective post-processing
Practical guidelines on how to address issues of stability and accuracy are given.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment50% Examination Weight50%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
ParticipationComputational Fluid Dynamics Assignments50%Sem 2 End
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List

  • Versteeg H.K. and Malalasekera W.: 0, An Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics The Finite Volume Method, Prentice Hall,
  • Ferziger J.H. and Peric M: 0, Computational Methods for Fluid Dynamics, Springer,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
CAMIMMEng in Mechanical & Manufacturing Eng
ECSAStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAOStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
GTECGraduate Training Visitor Program (E&C)
MEPDPhD
MEPMMEng
MEPTPhD-track
MMMEMEng in Mechanical and Manufacturing Eng
MMQBQualifier B for MEng. Mech & Manu Eng.
PHPTPhD-track
SMPECSingle Module Programme (Eng & Comp)
Date of Last Revision04-DEC-08
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