CFD finds many applications in energy related fields, e.g. saving energy in buildings and cities, power stations, wind farms and many more. Some examples are shown below.
Harnessing wave energy
Wave power is the transport of energy by ocean surface waves, and the capture of that energy to do useful work – for example, electricity generation, water desalination, or the pumping of water (into reservoirs).
Sloshing Dynamics in LNG Carriers
Knowledge of LNG motion in carrier vessels is essential to understanding various aspects of their operation and performance. FLOW-3D can predict the internal pressures on the container affecting the vessel’s properties. The violent motion of fuel or liquid cargo in tanks may result in dangerous loads on the containment system and supporting structures.
Oil/Water Separation
FLOW-3D can model immiscible fluids such as oil and water and can accurately track a distinct interface between the components relative to the open environment (surrounding air). Fluids can mix freely due to the dynamics affecting the entire domain. Over time the fluids separate again based on a drift relation between a continuous and a dispersed phase.