We model 3D flow distribution (gas or liquid) from first principles.
Ideal for reservoir design, contact tanks, mixing vessels and clarifiers; flotation and solids separation; anoxic/anaerobic/aerobic tank optimisation; coastal basins, river outfalls and pumping stations. We also use the latest in polyhedral meshing.
We can model the Built Environment, simulating natural and forced ventilation, odour dispersion, hazardous chemical release and thermal hot spots.
As well as CFD simulation, The Fluid Group are experts in Process Modelling placing us in a unique position to exploit the combination of Process Modelling with Computational Fluid Dynamics - an approach unique within the industry.
Our mission is to provide the most comprehensive simulation expertise in the industry - at the most cost-effective price.
Based in the Oxford Science Park, UK we have unrivalled access to some of the best technology, minds and transport links in the country. Our location also enables us to share resources and facilities - and grow alongside similar technology businesses located nearby.
We are experts in CFD applying FLUENT to model -
- 3D flow distribution (gas or liquid)
- Anoxic/anaerobic/aerated zone optimisation
- Clarifier design, flotation and solids separation
- Contact tanks and mixing vessels
- Residence time optimisation
- Reservoir design
- Digester mixing
- Pumping station design (avoiding cavitation)
- Odour and hazardous chemical dispersion
- Coastal basin and river outfall investigation
- Thermal hot-spots and optimal air flow in the built environment
- Optimising chemical and treatment efficiency
CFD Modelling
A standard technique for the automotive and aeronautical industries, CFD is state-of-the-art 3-dimensional flow simulation, from first principles.
We use FLUENT software to develop a solution to your problem.
Whether it is a simple, single-phase model of a mixing tank, or the most complex, dynamic, multi-component (air/water/chemical/solid) engineering project, CFD is likely to offer an ideal 3D solution.
The Fluid Group have some of the best experts in the UK at applying the correct level of detail to provide a cost-effective and rapid solution. We also use the latest in polyhedral meshing.
Typical modelling projects include
- 3D flow distribution (gas or liquid)
- Optimum clarifier and reservoir design
- Flotation and settlement tanks
- Contact tanks
- Mixing vessels
- Aerated, anoxic or anaerobic tanks
- Pumping stations, and
- Sludge and miscible component mixing
Process Modelling
The Fluid Group provide state-of-the-art Process Modelling (GPS-X) to test the design and operation of municipal and industrial Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW) and Chemical plant.
We have over a decade of practical experience in the latest design of treatment units and our expert, Dr Jim Wicks, has modelled over 100 chemical, industrial and municipal facilities in his career - investigating ways to optimise plant for more efficient, lower operating cost, or simply to confirm whether a new build or upgrade will work and operate cost-effectively.
Troubleshooting
Identifying and resolving problems is the greatest challenge and the most rewarding work that modeller's practice. The Fluid Group have a unique ability to bring a range of relevant skills to bear on a problem, and access to a suite of state-of-the-art tools suitable for the job.
Often the simplest issues are flow-split modification, solids separation or inadequate (or incorrect) mixing (a lack of scaleability from pilot plant to full scale is a typical scenario). On occasion, the remedy is not a model, but a clear case of an additional physical or chemical process the designer had not considered. On occasion, simply a new eye on a problem with the engineer or operator can help to identify the source of the concern.
Where/how to add increased aeration, where to put baffles, how to improve solids separation or clarification in an existing plant are typical issues to resolve. But whatever the problem, modelling is an extremely cost effective tool to identify what is happening - and that's the first stage in solving any problem.
With The Fluid Group, off-line simulation allows you, the client, to test new options without affecting your business. Also, remember we guarantee not to walk away when the modifications have been tested, offering a free after-sales service for 6 months if results are less than expected when modifications are in place.
Process Optimisation
Of all the projects The Fluid Group are involved with, roughly 50% are for plant already in operation. We are often asked how existing processes may be optimised cost-effectively, particularly if they are performing below design expectation.
Optimisation is the greatest challenge and the most rewarding work we practice. Often the simplest issues are flow-split modification, solids separation or poor mixing (a lack of scaleability from pilot plant to full scale is a typical scenario).
Where/how to add increased aeration, where to put baffles, how to improve solids separation or clarification in an existing plant are typical issues to resolve. In general, optimising treatment units can save considerable expenditure on new plant and dramatically extend the lifetime of existing facilities.
With The Fluid Group, off-line simulation allows you to test new options without affecting the process, and remember we guarantee not to walk away when the modifications have been tested, offering a free after-sales service for 6 months if results are less than expected when modifications are in place.
Combining Process & CFD Simulation
Everyone at The Fluid Group is dedicated to innovation. We allocate time and resources to giving our modellers freedom to experiment and learn new techniques.
One of The Fluid Group's prime advantages is a breadth of knowledge from Chemistry, Physics and Microbiology to the practical application of Computational Fluid Dynamics and an understanding of Fluid Flow from first principles.
In both the natural and engineering world, problems are often complex and multi-variate. At The Fluid Group, we believe the best way to solve a real problem is to tackle the project with a range of simulation techniques. Each technique (if correctly applied) will highlight a part of the problem and we fundamentally believe the combination of state-of-the-art techniques is the key to solving the difficult challenges we are faced with.
In particular, if a problem is not highlighted with one modelling technique, we have the capacity and expertise to layer on a second, or third simulation approach. Remember, it is always the problem and not the model that is important. We pride ourselves on knowing what is feasible, and delivering the best advice and expertise the industry can offer.
