CFD Capability Statement
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Capability
SWAX uses CFD modelling & analysis to address a multitude of challenges:
- Erosion modelling
- Erosion risk mitigation
- Flow induced vibration
- Fatigue assessment
- Multiphase pipe flow modelling
- Thermal modelling
- Heat dissipation
- During well start-up
- Along pipelines
- For process systems
- Thermal plume dispersion
- 3D fire & gas mapping
- Smoke & gas dispersion analysis
- 3D explosion assessment
- 3D consequence modelling
- Cryogenic spill assessment
- Environment system modelling
- Vortex Induced Vibration
- Pipeline slugging & impact assessment
Challenges:
SWAX’s client has a subsea sensor to check the temperature of the subsea pipelines. They wanted to check the temperature response of the sensor before undertaking an expensive subsea campaign. Without an in-house engineering capability to perform CFD modelling, the client turned to SWAX for its expertise in CFD Modelling and cost-effective operating model to perform investigation of the sensor temperature pick-up performance.
Scope:
SWAX worked with the client to clearly define the scope of work and identifying the parameters affecting the performance. SWAX CFD experts performed the CFD investigation in two phases, firstly a baseline CFD model was developed using a systematic approach to define the domain boundaries, then determining the appropriate mesh size through a grid independence study and identifying appropriate settings, to build a robust CFD model.
The study determined the critical factors in the performance of the temperature sensor unit during temperature pick-up. It also demonstrated that sea water current around the sensor has negligible impact on the rate of temperature pick-up.
Benefits/Business impact:
SWAX provided full project management and quality assurance as part of our unique “Assured, Managed, Delivered” work process. SWAX’s specialist CFD modelling team swiftly worked through the project, providing detailed insight prior to the expensive offshore campaign, enabling the client to develop an improved campaign plan with accurate durations for each temperature test.
SWAX worked collaboratively with the client team to provide a cost-effective solution with optimal results. The SWAX approach ensured the client management effort was kept to a minimum.
The client’s association with SWAX was a success.
