Physical & Mathematical Modelling

Stoneman Solutions, and associate organisations, offer an extensive range of services in the physical and computer-based mathematical modelling of industrial processes for problem-solving and process development.

Physical Modelling We have successfully used these techniques to assist product development in many areas. Fluid Flows in Automotive and Aeronautical systems and processes. Control of flow induced noise in gas rigs in the north sea Control of fuel slosh noise in automotive tanks Acoustic and fluid mechanic research into diagnostic processes using cough and other respiratory sounds Development of environmental noise pollution detector. Development of water pipeline leak detector. Computerised Modelling or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) A major application of computer-based mathematical modelling is in the area of Fluid Flow. Using the Finite Element Method (FEA) the fluid flows are modelled using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). CFD predicts the fluid dynamic processes by solving the equations of fluid dynamics for the particular industrial process of interest. For example, CFD can lead to significant improvements in mixing processes, as shown in the accompanying figure. The flow in each small element is solved simultaneously by the CFD computer code to produce an overall fluid flow pattern. The type of flow predicted depends on the boundary conditions, such as the inflow rate and the speed and shape of moving surfaces such as blades. The code is validated by experimental measurements and sophisticated flow visualisation. For a variety of processes, CFD represents a cost-effective way of improving design and operational processes. CFD can lead to large reductions in the time cycle of testing of prototypes, at a much reduced cost. Software can also be developed as an expert system which incorporates, and continues to `learn' from experience. In this way, design faults discovered previously can be identified automatically by the software.