Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics

Unit code: NEM4002 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
(NEM3002 or NEM3103) or (NEM3001 or NEF2101) or (NEF1005 or NEF1201)
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will explore how computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is used to model, analyse, and optimise fluid flow and heat transfer in complex engineering systems. Building on core principles of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, you will learn to formulate governing equations, apply numerical methods, and develop reliable CFD models for applications such as aerodynamics, internal flows, and thermal systems.



Through hands-on simulation projects, you will refine your ability to set up, solve, and interpret CFD analyses that inform performance improvement and sustainable design. The unit emphasises accuracy, validation, and ethical awareness in the use of computational tools, preparing you to communicate technical findings confidently and apply CFD techniques to innovate within real-world mechanical engineering contexts.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Formulate and discretise governing equations for fluid flow and heat transfer using appropriate numerical schemes for various CFD applications;
  2. Develop, implement, and evaluate CFD models using appropriate meshing, solver, and post-processing strategies to ensure reliable simulation results;
  3. Conduct verification and validation processes to evaluate stability, accuracy, and convergence of CFD results;
  4. Apply turbulence and multiphase models to analyse complex flow systems and propose performance improvements in mechanical engineering applications; and
  5. Articulate CFD results transparently, demonstrating ethical awareness of limitations, uncertainty, and sustainability impacts.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 20%
Progressive CFD simulation portfolio: (Individual) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 40%
Applied CFD case study project (Report 3000 words + Presentation 10 mins) (Group)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
In-class invigilated analytical and computational problem-solving test: (120 mins)

Portfolio: Structured weekly simulation and analysis tasks involving geometry setup, meshing, solver selection, and post-processing of steady and unsteady flow cases. Students will be required to document and explain their processes through progressive milestone checks and questions to verify deep understanding.

Project : Group investigation of a fluid or thermal system using validated CFD analysis to propose and justify performance improvements. Students will be required to document and explain their processes through progressive milestone checks and questions to verify deep understanding. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Test: In this secure invigilated test students apply governing equations, discretisation methods, and model validation principles for various CFD applications.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical Engineering)
NHEM | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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