Aplicación de modelos CFD en un tubo de venturi, válvula de compuerta y codo de 90 como complemento didáctico de la cátedra de mecánica de fluidos de IQ-ESPOCH

Abstract

In the field of chemical engineering and fluid mechanics, the understanding of hydraulic phenomena and losses due to fittings is essential. In view of the complexity and experimental costs, CFD simulation is presented as a valuable tool. In this research, the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations on three essential components: a Venturi tube, a gate valve and a 90° elbow, is explored in order to get into the hydraulic complexity and include its use as a didactic complement in fluid mechanics. Through a method supported by literature review and the use of the Ansys® Student 2023 R2 package, a detailed recreation of hydraulic phenomena was achieved, from stagnation points to cavitation detection, in addition to providing a detailed view of the action of fundamental principles such as conservation of momentum and continuity. The turbulence model was selected between k ε or laminar depending on the flow characteristics, showing outstanding performance in turbulent regime, with notoriously lower percentage errors compared to the laminar regime. The results obtained not only extend the fundamental understanding of fluid mechanics, but also support the creation of specific practice guides, enriching theoretical teaching with practical applications. This meticulous approach reveals the complexities of fluid dynamics in piping systems, highlighting the importance of considering minor losses in the design and operation of industrial facilities. Furthermore, it highlights the effectiveness of CFD simulation as a valuable pedagogical and research tool, overcoming experimental limitations, especially in academic contexts with equipment and cost constraints, enabling a deeper understanding and more accurate application of theoretical concepts in the tr aining of highly skilled engineers.