Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics (MSK570)

The equations that govern fluid flow are too complex to solve analytically for general problems. This course will introduce numerical tools to solve these equations, and use these to explore fundamental fluid flow phenomena.


Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts

Course code

MSK570

Version

1

Credits (ECTS)

5

Semester tution start

Autumn

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Autumn

Language of instruction

English

Offered by
Time table

View course schedule

Content

This course provides a fundamental introduction to computational fluid dynamics. You will learn the theory behind the method, and the theoretical concepts will be illustrated through the use of software to solve practical problems. We will examine simple examples in fluid dynamics, such as creeping flow, potential flow, and analytical solutions. This allows us to connect the use of numerical tools with theoretical calculations, and to provide a deeper understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of numerical simulations.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The students shall

  • know the governing equations for incompressible, Newtonian fluid flow
  • know the main approximations such as irrotational flow, creeping flow and boundary layers
  • know the procedure for solving the equations using the finite volume method

Skills

The students shall be able to

  • perform simulations of laminar flow in the CFD software OpenFOAM; create structured meshes, select initial- and boundary conditions, discretization schemes and solution methods and visualize the results
  • perform dimensional analysis of fluid flow problems
  • compare simulations against analytical and experimental results

General qualifications

The students shall be able to

  • visualize and present data from simulations in a scientific manner
  • interpret results from simulations and evaluate accuracy and uncertainty
  • collaborate in groups to carry out work

Required prerequisite knowledge

None

Recommended prerequisites

FYS200 Thermo- and Fluid Dynamics

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Folder 1/1 1 Semesters Letter grades All

The portfolio consists of three submissions with equal weighting.The portfolio is not graded until all work has been submitted and the portfolio as a whole is graded. Resit options are not offered on the portfolio. Students who fail can complete portfolio assessment the next time the course has regular teaching.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Knut Erik Teigen Giljarhus

Course teacher:

Knut Erik Teigen Giljarhus

Head of Department:

Mona Wetrhus Minde

Method of work

The course is taught in the first half of the semester.

2 hours lectures per week

4 hours computer lab per week

8-12 hours self study

Overlapping courses

Course Reduction (SP)
Fluid Dynamics (MSK560_1) 5

Open for

Enkeltemner Teknisk-naturvitenskaplig fakultet - masternivå Computational Engineering - Master of Science Degree Programme Environmental Engineering - Master of Science Degree Programme Structural and Mechanical Engineering - Master of Science Degree Programme Marine and Offshore Technology - Master of Science Degree Programme

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital course evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature

Search for literature in Leganto