COMSOL: Challenge X

Vaasavi Sundar MAE 598 Numerical Architecture

● COMSOL is a finite element analysis (FEA) modeling program ○ Includes a variety of packages (CFD, PDE, Batteries and Fuel Cells, Multidynamics modules) [1]

● CFD Specific Information [2] ○ Navier-Stokes Equations and Spalart-Allmaras used to model turbulent flow ○ Users can manipulate variables in the equations and include equations from other interfaces ○ Other available tools include: ■ hybrid meshes, automatic boundary layer meshing, and the ability to adapt mesh density ○ CFD Module can make use of various solvers (linear, nonlinear, time dependent, parametric) ○ Users can apply different orders within the same simulation Strengths and Weaknesses (Compared to )

Strengths: [3]

● Offers more control for the user (can input specific equations) ○ ANSYS uses a preprocessor ● Offers a variety of modules for more multiphysics problems ○ Some unique modules include: the MEMs module, acoustics module, corrosion module ○ ANSYS offers multiphysics simulations available for applications in electronics cooling, thermal FSI, and fluid structure interactions ● Users can define the boundaries through PDEs for any problem ● COMSOL users can incorporate other programming languages (MATLAB, JAVA) for a User-Defined Function (UDF) ○ ANSYS (only offers UDF through C) Strengths and Weaknesses (Compared to ANSYS)

Weaknesses: [3]

● ANSYS is widely renowned (and preferred) industry standard FEA tool ○ For many engineers, ANSYS is the preferred because there are pre-set settings for certain situations ○ ANSYS is considered to have a more “robust” solver ● ○ ANSYS offers a Finite Volume Method ● ANSYS Fluent is considered a better option for turbulent models ○ Turbulent models are considered more advanced than those available through COMSOL ○ Simulations with high Re numbers are more difficult to converge on COMSOL Availability, Cost, and Key Advantages

● COMSOL Multiphysics [4] ○ Single-use license: $ 1,695 ○ CFD Module: $ 1,695 ● COMSOL also offers an “Academic License” for a class of 300 students [4] ■ COMSOL Multiphysics License available at $ 3,995 ■ CFD Module: $ 2,995 ● At least 1 GB memory, but 4 GB or more is recommended ○ 1-5 GB of disk space (depends on licensed products and installation options ○ Can be run on Mac, Linux, and Windows ● Key Advantages: [3] ○ Availability of many multi-physics modules that aren’t offered through ANSYS Fluent ○ User-controlled method of modeling (through PDE inputs) ○ The cost of a COMSOL license is much less than that of an ANSYS license Lessons Learned and References

● From the research, it appears that while COMSOL offers more flexibility, this would be a more appropriate source for those who are pursuing research or for those who would prefer a mathematical approach. ANSYS is a more appropriate choice for students who are looking to go into industry, as that software is used predominantly in the industry.

References:

● [1] https://www.comsol.com/products ● [2] https://www.comsol.com/cfd-module ● [3]http://www.cfd-online.com/ ● [4] http://collaborate.bu.edu/engit/Comsol?action=AttachFile&do=get&target=comsol-pricelist.pdf