3-phase Tank Filling CFD Simulation

Explore the complexities of multi-fluid interactions with this advanced ANSYS Fluent tutorial on 3-phase tank filling simulation using the Volume of Fluid (VOF) multiphase model. This comprehensive module offers an in-depth look at the behavior of three distinct fluids during a tank filling process, providing valuable insights into industrial fluid handling and storage applications.

Key aspects covered: • Applying the VOF multiphase model to simulate the interaction between three immiscible fluids (e.g., water, oil, and air) during tank filling • Utilizing a pre-configured tank geometry in ANSYS Fluent, representative of real-world storage vessels • Implementing appropriate boundary conditions for fluid inlets, outlets, and tank walls • Fine-tuning VOF parameters to accurately capture the dynamic interfaces between the three phases • Analyzing the evolution of fluid interfaces and volume fraction distributions over time • Investigating the effects of inlet conditions, fluid properties, and tank geometry on filling patterns and fluid stratification • Interpreting simulation results to understand fluid displacement, interface dynamics, and potential mixing or separation issues

This simulation provides hands-on experience in using the VOF method to track multiple fluid interfaces simultaneously. You’ll gain insights into simulating gravity-driven flows, buoyancy effects, and interface dynamics typical in multi-fluid storage and handling operations.

By completing this module, you’ll become proficient in using ANSYS Fluent’s VOF multiphase model to simulate and analyze complex three-phase flows in tanks. This knowledge is crucial for engineers and researchers in chemical processing, oil and gas, and environmental sectors, working on optimizing storage tank designs, improving fluid separation processes, and ensuring proper fluid stratification.

Note: This tutorial focuses on transient simulation, allowing you to observe the dynamic behavior of the three fluids throughout the tank filling process. The transient approach provides valuable insights into the time-dependent aspects of multi-fluid interactions and interface evolution.