Simulation Software for Fluids and SolidsSimulation Electrical Heating of a Channel Flow using a Scott Circuit with four Rod Electrodes
This In this case study focuses on the simulation of a channel flow heated by four rod electrodes using a Scott circuit. Using NOGRID points CFD software, detailed insights can be gained into both the thermal behavior and fluid dynamics of electrically heated channels.
In this simulation, the rod electrodes are not modeled as solid bodies; instead, their geometric shells define the boundaries of the channel. The electrical potential is applied to these rod electrode boundaries. Because the Scott circuit involves two separate, phase-shifted electrical circuits, the simulation requires the computation of two distinct electric fields. Depending on the flow rate and the arrangement of the electrodes, the electrical resistance in the fluid establishes a specific temperature distribution in the fluid.
Figure 1: CAD created in NOGRID's COMPASS
Figure 2: Electrical potential circuit A
Figure 3: Electrical power circuit B
Figure 4: Temperature after 360 seconds
Figure 5: Fluid velocity field including velocity vectors
Figure 6: Temperature distribution including electrical current field vectors for circuit A
If you want to perform a simulation 'electrical heating of a channel flow by using a Scott circuit with four rod electrodes', the CFD software NOGRID points is the ideal solution. Based on the geometrical model - either imported from your existing CAD system or created using our CAD preprocessor COMPASS - you can quickly generate a computer model of a specific geometry, significantly faster than with traditional mesh-based methods and see its thermal characteristics in advance.
To solve the electrical potential u in liquids and solids, NOGRID points uses the following equation:
u electrical potential u = u (x, y, z)
σ electrical heat conductivity
q source term
In the field of electrostatics, the electrical potential does not change with time and the valid differential equation for the electrical potential u is the Poisson equation
Conduction in solids and liquids is described by Ohm's law, which states that current is proportional to the applied electric field. The current density (current per unit area) j in an area is directly proportional to the electric field E and the proportionality factor is the electric conductivity σ:
The electric field E can be calculated directly from the electric potential u by
In this simulation, the Navier-Stokes equations, the temperature equation and the Poission equation for electrical potential are computed. Due to the use of a Scott circuit, two phase-shifted electrical circuits are required - meaning the entire set of equations is solved twice within the simulation.
The temperature within the flow is influenced by several factors: the magnitude of the electrical current, the arrangement of the rod electrodes, and the fluid's temperature-dependent electrical resistance. For instance, if the viscosity of the fluid varies with temperature, this temperature distribution will naturally have a direct impact on the flow behavior in the channel.
Benefits of using NOGRID points CFD software
NOGRID points provides deep insight into flow behavior by visualizing mass, momentum, and heat transfer in both single-phase and multiphase systems. The software also delivers integral quantities that can be used to assess heat exchange efficiency.
In addition, NOGRID combines powerful capabilities to handle free surface flows and moving parts within the computational domain. It supports the simulation of any conceivable geometry or operation mode, including:
- fully 3D computation solving complete Navier-Stokes equations
- easy and intuitive setup also for FSI (Fluid-Structure-Interaction) cases
- freely definable material properties by equations or curves
- coupled solutions for electrical heating and fluid mechanic cases
- open or closed domains including inflow and outflow areas (non-batch mode)
- moving of parts and flexible thermal contact behaviour
Why choose Nogrid?
NOGRID provides professional CFD software for the simulation of fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, and chemical reactions. Its efficient modelling workflow helps engineers analyse flow behaviour, evaluate designs and make informed decisions without creating a conventional volume mesh.
Faster model preparation
With NOGRID, only the geometry boundary needs to be meshed. The finite points inside the fluid domain are generated automatically according to user-defined settings, both at the start of the simulation and during the calculation.
This approach reduces preprocessing effort and makes it easier to prepare complex geometries and cavities for simulation.
Efficient CFD workflow
The modelling process follows four straightforward steps:
Build the geometry. Mesh the boundary. Define the simulation. Start the calculation.
NOGRID is designed to provide short computation times, including for applications involving complex cavities. Engineers can use the resulting data to examine flow distribution and other relevant flow characteristics.
Better insight into fluid-flow processes
CFD solves the fundamental equations governing fluid flow. NOGRID software enables engineers to predict and analyse the behaviour of fluids and related physical processes before or alongside physical testing.
The simulation results can support:
- evaluation and comparison of design alternatives
- optimisation of construction and operating parameters
- improved planning reliability
- reduction of development time and testing effort
- faster progression from design to market or operation
Steps from geometry generation to simulation results
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