Use of open-source software in Computational Fluid Dynamics - Thermal compartment model

Resumo

There are several concepts involving fluids that can be tested, validated and simulated in laboratories of Physics, Chemistry and Engineering courses. In industry, these concepts find applications, and before being used in practice, they can be simulated with computational tools. The application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) allows a more efficient and optimized experimentation, reducing costs and increasing reliability in the final product. As a practice, the present study models, investigates and optimizes the behavior of the air flow inside a refrigerator used to accommodate immunizers, modifying its air intakes, analyzing the temperature gradients on the shelves, making it possible to give an indication of the positioning of products that need better management due to thermal variations and product conservation. With the open-source programs OpenFOAM, Salome and Paraview, it was possible to develop experiences contributing to the establishment of theoretical knowledge. The model was developed with a steady state solver for fluctuating, turbulent and incompressible flow. The data reinforce the view that the results with CFD are fundamental for the development of more personalized models and values the possibility of using free tools in undergraduate courses.