Computational Fluid Dynamics Aids Aerospace Apps

Just a few years ago, the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in most aerospace companies was restricted to pure research or troubleshooting problems with existing designs. But in the past few years, newly available CFD tools are fully embedded in the mainstream mechanical design environment and hence much easier, faster and less expensive to use. The trend toward using CFD early stages in the design process has resulted in a large number of new users of this powerful analysis technique. Bell Helicopter technical specialists have developed a set of CFD best practices with the goal of guiding users in following company design guidelines and optimizing the analytical processes. The tools are based on guidelines developed for use by engineers working on propulsion systems. The guidelines are based on the application of Mentor Graphics Mechanical Analysis Division’s FloEFD suite of CFD software used by Bell Helicopter for internal flow simulations.