Mesh Influence on Aerodynamic Performance

Mesh Topology Influence on Volute Aerodynamic Performance Computed Using Code Leo

Volute designs present a challenging geometry for meshing. Multi-block structured meshing has the advantage of reducing numerical diffusion and a higher node to cell count ratio, making it attractive for problems where accurately predicting performance is key. However, volute features like that of the tongue region, require a significant amount of effort to obtain a purely hexahedral mesh. Volute performance simulations depend critically on the cells nearest the boundary, as the core of the flow typically has relatively low circulation, implying hybrid meshing could potentially provide similar accuracy with more automation.

In this webinar, we evaluate a generic volute design. Simulations were performed using Code Leo, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver developed by AeroDynamic Solutions (ADS), on three different grid types generated with Pointwise: multi-block structured, unstructured with a hexahedral boundary layer, and unstructured with a prismatic boundary layer. We will describe the process for generating each grid, and discuss their relative pros and cons regarding meshing time and ease of modification. In addition, we will evaluate the numerical solutions from each of the three mesh topologies for accuracy and overall solution turnaround time.

Travis Carrigan

Travis Carrigan joined Pointwise as a senior engineer after completing his M.S. in aerospace engineering at The University of Texas at Arlington in May 2011 where his graduate research involved aerodynamic design optimization. Currently, as Manager of Technical Sales, Mr. Carrigan works with prospective customers and demonstrates how Pointwise software can be used to improve their CFD process. He also produces technical marketing content and works with customers and software partners to demonstrate best practices in grid generation, solver setup, and solution post-processing for a variety of industries.

John Rhoads

John Rhoads completed his Ph.D. in plasma physics at Princeton University in 2013 and joined the Pointwise staff as senior engineer on the Sales and Marketing Team. Dr. Rhoads' dissertation topic was “Experimental Study of Magnetohydrodynamic Effects and Heat Transfer in Free-Surface, Flowing Liquid Metal.” Dr. Rhoads earned an M.A. in astrophysics from Princeton in 2009 and B.S. degrees in physics, engineering and mathematics from Texas Christian University in 2007.

William Humber

AeroDynamic Solutions

William Humber is a senior computational fluid dynamics (CFD) engineer who joined AeroDynamic Solutions in 2009. His areas of interest are heat transfer, unstructured mesh generation, and optimization. His responsibilities at ADS include development of meshing and post-processing tools as well as customer support. He was awarded the University Turbine Systems Research Fellowship in 2007 and spent two summers in the Turbine Durability Group at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford, Connecticut. He holds a B.S. and M.S. in Aerospace Engineering from The Pennsylvania State University.

Michael Ni