IC with heat sink

Computational Fluid Dynamics: Capabilities of Simulation CFD

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Flow Dynamics Simulation Software for Computational Fluid Dynamics

IC with heat sink

Value of Simulation Computational Fluid Dynamics Software

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a technology based on a fast and reliable computational methodology for solving complex fluid flow and heat transfer problems[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container][fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none” last=”no” hover_type=”none” link=”” border_position=”all”][fusion_text][1].  In the engineering world it is important to use tools that can help troubleshoot possible issues before we get to the product development stage.  This blog will be discussing the capabilities of AutoDesk® Simulation CFD, and how our engineering firm uses this tool when working on projects.

Capabilities of AutoDesk® Simulation CFD

You can use it with CAD Programs:

AutoDesk® allows you to connect their simulation software to any CAD system, allowing you to create fluid flow and thermal simulations of your designs [2].  This is valuable because you can create your 3D drawings and then run your tests all through simulation. This will save your company both time and money, as you don’t have to wait on a prototype to be built in order to run your tests, and you also don’t have to risk your money on a prototype that may have complex fluid flow and heat transfer issues.  At Glew Engineering we have used this software and CAD capability to analyze heat transfer and fluid flow in CVD chambers to determine temperature distribution. We used the 2D & 3D CAD software PTC® Creo, along with the AutoDesk® software to run the simulations on the CVD chambers and were able to determine where changes needed to be made in order for the product to withstand the thermal conditions. This software allows us to save our clients money, and helps us pinpoint the exact location of the issue and come up with a solution to make the product successful.

You can create customized tasks:

The application programming interface (API) that this simulation software offers allows its users the freedom to automate and customize tasks [2]. You also have the ability to create specialized formats for how you present the created data, and are not forced to use one generic platform.  Having the ability to customize is key because as engineers we are constantly working with multiple pieces of equipment.  This allows you to input the specific information for each product, and how exactly you would like for them to be tested.

Heat Transfer Analysis:

One of the best aspects of using simulation software in thermal management is being able to visually compare different areas of the model by the varying colors that show temperature variance.  This allows you to see how hot certain parts get through the process, and also how much stress the device would be under.  The thermal management solver capabilities offered in the AutoDesk® software include all modes of heat transfer from solid to solid or solid to fluid [2].  Glew Engineering has done several projects that required CFD analysis; one such project included modeling a semiconductor epitaxial reactor.  From the results of the client was able to significantly improve cross wafer deposition thickness.

How Our Engineering Firm Has Used Autodesk CFD

Glew Engineering utilizes network licensed versions of AutoDesk® Simulation Mechanical and AutoDesk® Simulation CFD to analyze, validate and refine thermal management designs.  With our extensive software, we can model parts, LEDs, and computer chips for radiation, convection, and conduction heat transfer independently or combined.  The analysis is best early in the design process.  However, it is also helpful in diagnosing field problems.

The software can natively import many different CAD formats.  However, we also run Autodesk Inventor®, Solidworks®, and PTC CREO CAD software to help with the process.  Generally, CAD files need a certain amount of clean up before they are ready for FEA or CFD use. Even a single part interference will crash the mesher.   However, it is usually worth the investment of time to modify the CAD files, so that we can run multiple design iterations efficiently.   Few designs pass the analysis the first time; iteration is faster and cheaper by FEA or CFD in most cases than building and testing prototypes.  Further, optimization is only possible with an accurate model and analysis.

Our clients include those in heavy industries (automobile, tractor, earth movers, etc.), semiconductor manufacturers, medical equipment, medical device, lighting (LED) suppliers and members of the legal community.  We can provide support as adjunct members of existing engineering teams, as autonomous designers, or provide second opinions.  Examples of past thermal management client work has included chuck design for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, selecting paste for IC packaging, and electronic component board layout for consumer products.

If you would like to read more about heat transfer and computational fluid dynamics click the links below:

Heat Sink

Engineering Hurricanes: Flood Concerns

Pump Technology

 

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