To main content

CFD - Computational Fluid Dynamics

The CFD group at SINTEF Energy Research has more than 30 years of experience in performing numerical modelling of chemically reactive processes in laminar and turbulent flows consisting of single-phase (gaseous fuels combustion) or multi-phase (solid fuels combustion) configurations.

Contact person

Depending on the specific needs and time constraints of our customers, we are able to perform numerical simulations that boast a wide range of accuracies, geometric complexity and computational cost.

We work within these areas:

  • Design and optimization of combustion systems for power and heat generation units and in industrial processes to minimize emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases (CCS).
  • Accurate evaluation of combustion equipment performance when used in combination with new and alternative fuels and fuel/oxidant combinations (hydrogen, bio-fuels, fuels from waste disposal etc).

The numerical modelling methods we use (both in-house and commercial software):

  • RANS (Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes). The most common approach for the numerical investigation of engineering problems characterized by steady-state behavior. Computationally inexpensive, can provide detailed representation of chemical reactions but lacks insight into transient processes.
  • LES (Large Eddy Simulations). The appropriate choice to study advanced industrial applications governed by complex, rate-limiting unsteady flow processes that require accurate representation by the numerical model. Intermediate computational cost for both simple and complex chemistry.
  • DNS (Direct Numerical Simulation). Model-free numerical method that provides unmatched accuracy and high level of detail about the process of interest, presently limited by computational cost to relatively small physical domains or configurations characterized by low turbulence levels. When applicable (see BIGH2 project below) allows unprecedented insight into the most complex aspects of the industrial combustion process.

Why choose SINTEF?

We are the leading research group performing numerical modelling of combustion processes and equipment boasting an unmatched track record in Norway and internationally.

Who are we doing this for?

Our clients are industrial supplier of power and heat processes and systems for domestic and industrial market, the Research Council of Norway and the European Commission (Horizon Europe).