COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMICS - 2023/4

Module code: ENG3210

Module Overview

The module will enable the students to understand the steps needed to compute a solution to a problem in fluid dynamics and to understand the possible sources of error in a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The module will introduce the students to a computer-based tool to perform a simulation of a simple flow of engineering interest, including pre- and post-processing.

Module provider

Mechanical Engineering Sciences

Module Leader

MARQUES Simao (Mech Eng Sci)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 6

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Overall student workload

Independent Learning Hours: 117

Tutorial Hours: 22

Captured Content: 11

Module Availability

Semester 1

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

N/A

Module content

Indicative content includes:

Introduction to the modelling process for fluids engineering

Geometry modelling

Grid generation techniques

Introduction to numerical solution of fluid dynamics problems: conservation equations, Navier-Stokes, linearity and classification (elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic equations).

Computation of the Navier-Stokes equations: finite-volume discretization, compressible and incompressible methods; explicit and implicit methods for temporal discretization.

CFL condition and the convection-based Courant number and corresponding diffusion number.

Discussion of solution methods, convergence and accuracy/errors of flow solvers.

RANS and the need for turbulence modelling.

Verification and validation.

The role of boundary conditions.

Post-processing.

Brief overview of advanced CFD techniques: URANS, parallel processing.

Assessment pattern

Assessment type Unit of assessment Weighting
Coursework CFD Laboratory 66
Online Scheduled Summative Class Test CFD Class test (30 min.) 34

Alternative Assessment

n/a

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of CFD practices and solvers. The CFD class test assesses the students' understanding of theoretical aspects of CFD (Learning Outcome 1,3), feedback on the test will be provided upon completion by the whole class; the coursework tests the students' ability to obtain solutions to flow problems using a computer-based tool, interpret the solutions obtained and awareness of the possible sources of error in the solution (Learning Outcomes 2, 4). Students will have continuous feedback on their work during the weekly tutorial session, including on their coursework.

Module aims

  • To enable the students to understand the steps needed to compute a solution to a problem in fluid dynamics and to understand the possible sources of error in a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation.
  • To enable the students to use a computer-based tool to perform a simulation of a simple flow of engineering interest, including pre- and post-processing.

Learning outcomes

Attributes Developed
Ref
002 Select and implement an appropriate numerical method for common practical engineering problems KCP C3
003 Understand the sources of error in a numerical solution and evaluate the validity of numerical solutions C C1,C2
004 Solve an engineering flow problem using a computer-based tool KCP C1,C2,C3
001 Understand the basic mathematical principles underlining CFD simulations KC C1

Attributes Developed

C - Cognitive/analytical

K - Subject knowledge

T - Transferable skills

P - Professional/Practical skills

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to introduce CFD practices and understanding through theory with worked examples carried out by the students. This is delivered through lectures and tutorial classes with the students conducting practical coursework assignments.

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: ENG3210

Other information

N/A

Programmes this module appears in

Programme Semester Classification Qualifying conditions
Aerospace Engineering BEng (Hons) 1 Optional A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module
Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons) 1 Optional A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module
Automotive Engineering BEng (Hons) 1 Optional A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module
Automotive Engineering MEng 1 Optional A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module
Aerospace Engineering MEng 1 Optional A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module
Mechanical Engineering MEng 1 Optional A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2023/4 academic year.