Arta CFD Laboratory

Hydrodynamics CFD Simulation

Hydrodynamics is the study of liquids in motion. Specifically, it looks at the ways different forces affect the movement of liquids. A series of equations explain how the conservation laws of mass, energy, and momentum apply to liquids, particularly those that are not compressed. Hydrodynamics is part of a larger field called fluid mechanics that studies how energy and forces interact with fluids, including liquids. Hydrodynamics is largely used in engineering. Some studies focus primarily on the flow through pipes, and over various obstacles. This is very useful information for building structures that attempt to control or divert water flow in a controlled manner. Mathematical equations attempt to predict the rate of water flow through a pipe, which is a laminar, or uninterrupted, flow. They also try to predict with some level of accuracy the flow patterns of turbulent, or interrupted, flow as occurs with an object like a dam. Marine hydrodynamics is another major practical application of the science. A hydrodynamic model uses the formulas found in the conservation laws to explain how and why water reacts to its environment, and vice versa. Before the computer age, most of these models were small scale recreations of real life scenarios. Today, hydrodynamic models are usually computer generated animations, or formulas that can be applied to those same real life conditions.

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