CFD Handbook
Free calculators and reference pages for CFD engineers: mesh sizing, turbulence set-up, verification and heat transfer, maintained by Volupe's application engineers.
Set up and mesh a simulation
In the order you usually need them for a new case.
k–ω SST · k–ε · S–A
Interactive guide
Turbulence model selector
Pick a turbulence model and wall treatment for your case in Simcenter STAR-CCM+.
Application, flow features → model, y+ target, prism layers, Java macro
Open the selector →
y+ = uτy / ν
Calculator
y+ calculator
Size the first cell for a target y+, then the prism layer stack.
U, ρ, μ, L, y+ → first cell height, δ, prism layer settings
Open calculator →
k = ³⁄₂ (U I)2
Calculator
Turbulence boundary conditions calculator
Turn turbulence intensity into inlet k, ε, ω and ν̃.
U, ν, intensity + length scale or viscosity ratio → k, ε, ω, ν̃
Open calculator →
Re = ρUL / μ
Calculator
Dimensionless numbers
Check the flow regime before you pick models and mesh.
Fluid properties, U, L → Re, Pr, Ma, Fr, Bi, We and more
Open calculator →
Verify results and plan studies
Quantify mesh uncertainty and size a design study before you spend the compute.
GCI = Fs|ε| / (rp − 1)
Calculator
Grid Convergence Index (GCI) calculator
Quantify mesh uncertainty from a three-grid refinement study.
3 meshes + results → observed order, GCI, extrapolated value
Open calculator →
N = mk
Planner
DOE calculator
Estimate how many simulation runs a design study needs.
Variables, levels, run time → runs and time per method
Open planner →
Heat transfer and drag
Correlations and reference values to check a set-up by hand.
h = Nu k / L
Calculator
Nusselt number calculator
Estimate convective heat transfer from standard correlations.
Geometry, fluid properties, flow → Nu, h
Open calculator →
Nu = C Ran
Reference
Heat transfer coefficient correlations
Look up convective heat transfer correlations for common geometries.
Covers: natural and forced convection on plates and cylinders
Read reference →
CD = 2FD / (ρU2A)
Reference
Drag coefficients
Look up CD for common 2D and 3D shapes.
Covers: shapes, flow dependence, simulation set-up tips
Read reference →
Basics and downloads
Background reading and starting files for Simcenter STAR-CCM+.
∂ρ/∂t + ∇·(ρu) = 0
Introduction
Basic CFD concepts
Get started with CFD through short explanations and curated video lessons.
Covers: governing equations, workflow, turbulence modelling, meshing
Open guide →
5 templates · .sim
Downloads
Templates for Simcenter
Start from ready-made Simcenter STAR-CCM+ template files.
Includes: get-started (v2306), wire-grid porous baffles, LMP, EMP and DEM multiphase
See downloads →
Questions about the CFD Handbook
Volupe's application engineers build and maintain the CFD Handbook from the questions we answer in support every week. We are adding the method, sources and a named reviewer to every tool page, starting with the y+ calculator.
Your contact for the CFD Handbook
Christoffer Johansson
Senior Application Specialist, M.Sc.
Found an error or missing a tool? We reply within one day.
Ask a technical question →
Are the calculators free to use?
Yes. There is no sign-up, and the calculations run in your browser, not on our servers. Our normal site analytics apply; see our privacy policy.
Do the tools only work with Simcenter STAR-CCM+?
No. The physics is the same in any CFD code. Where a result maps to a solver setting, we name the matching Simcenter STAR-CCM+ setting.
Who builds and checks the calculators?
Volupe's application engineers, who support Simcenter users every day. We are adding the method, assumptions, sources and a named reviewer to each tool page.
Can Volupe help me set this up in Simcenter STAR-CCM+?
Yes. Customers get support from our engineers, and we run Simcenter STAR-CCM+ training courses. If you are not using Simcenter STAR-CCM+ yet, ask us about a trial, or send us a technical question.
Can I suggest a new calculator or report an error?
Yes, please do. Use the form below and choose “Technical question”.
Talk to an engineer in your region
Every Volupe business developer holds an engineering degree. Find your regional contact below, or send us a message.
Ask us about CFD Handbook
Use this form for licence quotes, demos, training and technical questions.
What happens next
- A reply within one day.
- A scoping call with one of our engineers.
- A quote, demo or other next step that fits your enquiry.
After purchase: support from Volupe simulation engineers.
