Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

CFD is a branch of fluid mechanics that uses numerical analysis and data structures to analyze and solve problems that involve fluid flows. Computers are used to perform the calculations required to simulate the free-stream flow of the fluid, and the interaction of the fluid (liquids and gases) with surfaces defined by boundary conditions.

With high-speed supercomputers, better solutions can be achieved, and are often required to solve the largest and most complex problems. The latest software has improved the accuracy and speed of complex simulation scenarios such as transonic or turbulent flows.

The fundamental basis of almost all CFD problems are the Navier–Stokes equations, which define many single-phase (gas or liquid, but not both) fluid flows. These equations can be simplified by removing terms describing viscous actions to yield the Euler equations. Further simplification, by removing terms describing vorticity yields the full potential equations. Finally, for small perturbations in subsonic and supersonic flows (not transonic or hypersonic) these equations can be linearized to yield the linearized potential equations.