Computational fluid dynamics: A two-edged sword
- Univ. of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (United States)
- AGA Labs., Cleveland, OH (United States)
- Computational Mechanics Corp., Knoxville, TN (United States)
This article examines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) limitations as a design tool. Two decades have passed since the first paper was published in the ASHRAE Transactions suggesting the use of CFD for quantitative prediction of room air motion. CFD is an emerging methodology, with roots in the defense/aerospace industry, wherein a mathematical model of fluid flow is converted into a digital computational procedure, yielding numbers that approximate the solution of this modeled system, hence the genuine flow state. CFD methodology has indeed brought bright glimmers of an ability to establish firm quantitative data regarding how room air moves. In fact, CFD can predict fluid levels and pressure differences to very low levels, that are essentially impossible to experimentally measure. However, a CFD model constitutes the culmination of a large number of assumptions and approximations, such that the answers produced are essentially never correct. Further, it is the very approximation process in CFD theory that leads to intrinsic error mechanisms that can range from benign to pathological. The ASHRAE professional who seeks to use CFD to assist in system design needs to be fully aware of these two edges of the CFD sword.
- OSTI ID:
- 538140
- Journal Information:
- ASHRAE Journal, Vol. 39, Issue 8; Other Information: PBD: Aug 1997
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Reduced Order Model to Predict Dispersion of Flammable Refrigerant into a Space
Prototype energy models for data centers