Tutorial: Creating curves in blockMesh

In this post, I'll give a simple example of how to create curves in blockMesh. For this example, we'll look at the following basic setup: As you can see, we'll be simulating the flow over a bump defined by the curve: $latex y=H*\sin\left(\pi x \right) $ First, let's look at the basic blockMeshDict for this … Continue reading Tutorial: Creating curves in blockMesh

Creating synthetic Schlieren and Shadowgraph images in Paraview

Experimentally visualizing high-speed flow was a serious challenge for decades. Before the advent of modern laser diagnostics and velocimetry, the only real techniques for visualizing high speed flow fields were the optical techniques of Schlieren and Shadowgraph. Today, Schlieren and Shadowgraph remain an extremely popular means to visualize high-speed flows. In particular, Schlieren and Shadowgraph … Continue reading Creating synthetic Schlieren and Shadowgraph images in Paraview

Solving for your own Sutherland Coefficients using Python

Sutherland's equation is a useful model for the temperature dependence of the viscosity of gases. I give a few details about it in this post: https://curiosityfluids.com/2019/02/15/sutherlands-law/ The law given by: $latex \mu=\mu_o\frac{T_o + C}{T+C}\left(\frac{T}{T_o}\right)^{3/2}&s=1$ It is also often simplified (as it is in OpenFOAM) to: $latex \mu=\frac{C_1 T^{3/2}}{T+C}=\frac{A_s T^{3/2}}{T+T_s}&s=1$ In order to use these equations, … Continue reading Solving for your own Sutherland Coefficients using Python

Tips for tackling the OpenFOAM learning curve

The most common complaint I hear, and the most common problem I observe with OpenFOAM is its supposed "steep learning curve". I would argue however, that for those who want to practice CFD effectively, the learning curve is equally as steep as any other software. There is a distinction that should be made between "user … Continue reading Tips for tackling the OpenFOAM learning curve

Automatic Airfoil C-Grid Generation for OpenFOAM – Rev 1

Airfoil Mesh Generated with curiosityFluidsAirfoilMesher.py Here I will present something I've been experimenting with regarding a simplified workflow for meshing airfoils in OpenFOAM. If you're like me, (who knows if you are) I simulate a lot of airfoils. Partly because of my involvement in various UAV projects, partly through consulting projects, and also for testing … Continue reading Automatic Airfoil C-Grid Generation for OpenFOAM – Rev 1

Normal Shock Calculator

Here is a useful little tool for calculating the properties across a normal shock. If you found this useful, and have the need for more, visit http://www.stfsol.com. One of STF Solutions specialties is providing our clients with custom software developed for their needs. Ranging from custom CFD codes to simpler targeted codes, scripts, macros and … Continue reading Normal Shock Calculator