Fluids process modelling

Researchers at CSIRO are using fluids process modelling to optimise processes, plant and equipment, and assist scale-up, quickly and cost effectively.

• 22 June 2010 | Updated 14 October 2011

Overview

• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
• Experimental fluid dynamics
• Fluids engineering
• Optimising processes and equipment

CSIRO's fluids process modelling program has been studying different processes and systems related to the mineral processing, metal production, petroleum and power generation industries for over 20 years.

The program has extensive expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), experimental fluid dynamics and fluids engineering.

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)

Computational fluid dynamics can simulate the flow of liquids, gases and particles.

CFD is a cost-effective way of carrying out equipment and process design and optimisation, and can reduce risk in equipment modification and process scale-up.

Experimental fluid dynamics

Experimental fluid dynamics uses physical flow models to investigate flow behaviour. It is also a powerful validation tool for CFD models. 

Using state-of-the-art facility such as our laser flow diagnostics laboratory, we are able to perform highly detailed and accurate measurements of flow fields in gas and liquids, simultaneously with analyses of particulate flows. 

Fluids engineering

Fluids engineering involves the development of flow improvement designs and innovative flow technologies to:

• improve process efficiency
• increase product quality or throughput
• reduce operating costs.

Optimising processes and equipment

The broad application of fluids process modelling to new and existing plant in the mineral processing, metal production and energy industries has the potential to save companies many millions of dollars per year.

To support current projects, researchers are developing models of:

• thickeners, feedwells and slurry flows
• mixing vessels and stirred tanks
• flotation cells
• fluidised beds
• electrolytic cells
• heap leaching
• solvent extraction.

Find out more about the work Simulating the flow of liquids, gases and particles.