Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive, project-driven introduction to industrial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) using professional-grade software. Over approximately 12 weeks with a commitment of 6–8 hours per week, learners will progress through the complete CFD simulation workflow—from foundational theory to final validation. Each module combines theoretical instruction with hands-on exercises using ANSYS Fluent, supported by downloadable simulation files and an included academic license. Real-world engineering case studies ensure practical relevance, while mesh independence studies and validation against experimental data reinforce robust practice. By the end, learners will complete a capstone project demonstrating mastery of full simulation workflows.

Module 1: CFD Foundations

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Fundamental CFD theory and governing equations
• Derivation and physical interpretation of Navier-Stokes equations
• Finite Volume Method (FVM) discretization techniques
• Dimensionless number analysis (Reynolds, Mach, etc.)
• Solver algorithms and numerical stability

Module 2: Pre-Processing

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Geometry preparation for CFD simulations
• Structured and unstructured mesh generation
• Boundary layer modeling and inflation layers
• Mesh quality assessment and refinement strategies
• Hands-on labs using ANSYS Meshing

Module 3: Solver Setup

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Turbulence modeling: k-ε, k-ω, and LES approaches
• Selection criteria for turbulence models
• Internal and external flow case setups
• Boundary condition configuration
• Convergence monitoring and solver controls

Module 4: Post-Processing

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Flow field visualization techniques
• Quantitative data extraction and analysis
• Engineering reporting and result interpretation
• Validation against experimental data
• Best practices for simulation documentation

Module 5: Industrial Application Case Studies

Estimated time: 24 hours

• Analysis of real-world engineering case studies
• Multiphysics considerations in industrial CFD
• Mesh independence studies and sensitivity analysis
• Workflow optimization for industrial efficiency
• Application across aerospace, automotive, and HVAC systems

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 30 hours

• Complete CFD simulation of an industrial-scale problem
• Submission of mesh independence study and validation report
• Engineering presentation of results and conclusions

Prerequisites

• Undergraduate-level fluid mechanics knowledge
• Comfort with advanced mathematics (calculus, differential equations)
• Access to a high-performance computing system compatible with ANSYS Fluent

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Set up and solve complex CFD problems using ANSYS Fluent
• Generate high-quality meshes and assess their independence
• Select and apply appropriate turbulence models
• Validate simulation results against experimental data
• Produce professional engineering reports from CFD analyses