Analyses of the movement of wind, air and fluids at an early stage of the design process can identify issues before they arise and lead to cost-effective modifications that increase safety, comfort and operational efficiency. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations enable flows to be explored and modelled to generate reliable options at the conceptual stage. Once a structure has been built, solutions are typically more limited and more costly.
Wind flow analysis is particularly useful for large or tall buildings and their impact on nearby structures. Air flow analyses are useful to identify how to efficiently regulate indoor climates and guarantee clean and healthy internal environments. In data centres, we can model heat flow to assess the level of cooling required. Fluid engineering is used in assessing fluid flow hazards in silos and storage tanks and simulating water flow caused by ships when docking.
