Physical Modelling
Physical modelling is a practical and cost-effective tool for investigating design issues with existing equipment or new concepts involving dynamic flow. Similarity laws are used to develop a scaled model of the design. The benefits of insight and foresight into the behaviour of the system and improvements to the design cycles are identical to that obtained with CFD.
Why Use Physical Modelling?
CFD is not always the most effective tool to model a system. Physical modelling excels in cases involving: transient or unsteady flows, buoyancy-induced flows, flows in a stratified environment, and cases where significant and frequent geometry changes are anticipated. There are no true hard and fast rules for selecting which type of model to use. Clients are often initially skeptical when a physical model is recommended; however, we always stress that Mother Nature has been solving the non-linear system of equations governing fluid and mass transport for a much longer time than computers have been in existence; AND she does it instantaneously, in real time, to an infinite resolution, with no convergence issues.
Typical applications for physical models include:
- Contaminate transport problems
- Buoyancy induced flows
- Entrainment problems
- Mixing vessels and pump wells
- Paint booths and dip tanks
- Fume hoods
- Stack plumes
- Process emission dispersion or containment
- Building ventilation systems
- Complex gas handling equipment
Stream Function Inc. has the expertise to examine each situation and make the appropriate recommendation on which modelling method to use.
Whether your problem requires CFD or physical modelling, Stream Function Inc. is your one stop modelling. Contact us for more information on how we can assist you with your next project.