Computational Fluid Dynamics: From Basics to Advanced Level (OpenFoam)

What Will You Learn?

• Understand the role of CFD in engineering and where it’s used across mechanical, civil, and aerospace applications
• Grasp the governing equations of fluid flow (conservation of mass, momentum, and energy) and their physical meaning
• Learn the finite volume method, spatial/temporal discretization, and how numerical schemes affect accuracy and stability
• distinguish laminar vs turbulent, steady vs unsteady, incompressible vs compressible flows and choose appropriate models
• Apply turbulence modeling in practice (k–epsilon, k–omega SST), including near-wall treatment and y+ targeting
• Evaluate and improve mesh quality (orthogonality, skewness, aspect ratio) and perform grid-independence studies
• Navigate the OpenFOAM workflow and case structure (0, constant, system) with controlDict, fvSchemes, and fvSolution
• Create meshes using blockMesh for simple domains and snappyHexMesh for complex CAD geometries (STL import, refinements, layers)
• Set correct boundary and initial conditions for internal and external flows, and monitor convergence with residuals and flux balance
• Run core OpenFOAM solvers for laminar and turbulent cases (icoFoam, simpleFoam, pimpleFoam; rhoSimpleFoam for compressible)
• Post-process in ParaView: contours, streamlines, vectors, surface/line plots, Q-criterion, and automated reports
• Compute engineering metrics such as pressure drop, flow rate, lift/drag (forceCoeffs), and turbulence kinetic energy
• Build a complete basic CFD project (e.g., pipe/junction or 2D airfoil): meshing, solving, validation against theory or literature
• Execute an advanced project using industrial geometry (e.g., cyclone/preheater, wind around a building, high-AoA airfoil), including transient analysis and recommendations
• Run cases in parallel and manage larger meshes and datasets efficiently
• Document results professionally: assumptions, model choices, mesh studies, validation, and design insights suitable for stakeholders
• Develop an end-to-end CFD mindset: define objectives, plan simulations, verify/validate results, and translate findings into engineering decisions