Course

Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics (MSK570)

Facts

Course code MSK570

Credits (ECTS) 5

Semester tution start Autumn

Language of instruction English

Number of semesters 1

Exam semester Autumn

Time table View course schedule

Literature The syllabus can be found in Leganto

Introduction

The equations that govern fluid flow are too complex to solve analytically for general problems. This course will introduce numerical tools to solve these equations, and use these to explore fundamental fluid flow phenomena.

Content

This course provides a fundamental introduction to computational fluid dynamics. You will learn the theory behind the method, and the theoretical concepts will be illustrated through the use of software to solve practical problems. We will examine simple examples in fluid dynamics, such as creeping flow, potential flow, and analytical solutions. This allows us to connect the use of numerical tools with theoretical calculations, and to provide a deeper understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of numerical simulations.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The students shall

  • know the governing equations for incompressible, Newtonian fluid flow
  • know the main approximations such as irrotational flow, creeping flow and boundary layers
  • know the procedure for solving the equations using the finite volume method

Skills

The students shall be able to

  • perform simulations of laminar flow in the CFD software OpenFOAM; create structured meshes, select initial- and boundary conditions, discretization schemes and solution methods and visualize the results
  • perform dimensional analysis of fluid flow problems
  • compare simulations against analytical and experimental results

General qualifications

The students shall be able to

  • visualize and present data from simulations in a scientific manner
  • interpret results from simulations and evaluate accuracy and uncertainty
  • collaborate in groups to carry out work

Required prerequisite knowledge

None

Recommended prerequisites

Thermo- and Fluid Dynamics (FYS200)

Exam

Folder

Weight 1/1

Duration 1 Semesters

Marks Letter grades

Aid All

Withdrawal deadline 28.09.2025

The portfolio consists of three submissions with equal weighting.

The portfolio is not graded until all work has been submitted and the portfolio as a whole is graded. Resit options are not offered on the portfolio. Students who fail can complete portfolio assessment the next time the course has regular teaching.

Method of work

The course is taught in the first half of the semester.

2 hours lectures per week

4 hours computer lab per week

8-12 hours self study

Overlapping courses

Course Reduction (SP)
Fluid Dynamics (MSK560_1) , Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics (MSK570_1) 5

Open for

Admission to Single Courses at Master Level at the Faculty of Science and Technology
Computational Engineering Environmental Engineering Structural and Mechanical Engineering Marine and Offshore Technology

Admission requirements

Completed bachelor’s degree in technology or natural sciences

Course assessment

The faculty decides whether early dialogue will be held in all courses or in selected groups of courses. The aim is to collect student feedback for improvements during the semester. In addition, a digital course evaluation must be conducted at least every three years to gather students’ experiences.

Contact

Head of Department:
Mona Wetrhus Minde
Course coordinator:
Knut Erik Teigen Giljarhus
Course teacher:
Knut Erik Teigen Giljarhus

Offered by

Faculty of Science and Technology

Department of Mechanical and Structural Engineering and Materials Science

The course description is retrieved from FS (Felles studentsystem). Version 1