CFD

Science & Engineering abbreviation · Engineering

CFD
Stands forComputational fluid dynamics
CategoriesScience & Engineering

CFD stands for Computational fluid dynamics, an engineering abbreviation.

Use of numerical methods and computers to simulate the flow of liquids and gases, including air over cars and aircraft, water through pumps, smoke in buildings and blood in arteries. CFD solves the Navier-Stokes equations on a mesh to predict pressure, velocity and temperature.

Example: CFD predicted a 4% drag reduction from the redesigned side mirrors.

Usage notes

Lewis Fry Richardson attempted a numerical weather forecast by hand in 1922, a forerunner of CFD. Turbulence must usually be approximated with models, a major source of uncertainty. Formula 1 rules limit how much CFD and wind-tunnel time each team may use. Common software includes Ansys Fluent and the open-source OpenFOAM.

More engineering abbreviations

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  • BIM – Building information modeling
  • BOM – Bill of materials
  • CAD – Computer-aided design
  • CAE – Computer-aided engineering
  • CAM – Computer-aided manufacturing
  • CNC – Computer numerical control
  • COP – Coefficient of performance
  • CTE – Coefficient of thermal expansion
  • DCS – Distributed control system
  • DFA – Design for assembly
  • DFM – Design for manufacturing

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