Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling is a valuable tool for assessing and mitigating water hammer risks in piping systems, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of hydraulic systems. When checking for water hammer, which is a hydraulic shock phenomenon in piping systems caused by sudden changes in flow velocity, CFD modelling offers several key benefits:
- Prediction of Pressure Transients: CFD can predict the pressure transients that occur during water hammer events, helping engineers identify potential problem areas in piping systems.
- Identification of Critical Points: CFD can identify critical points in a piping system where water hammer is likely to occur, allowing engineers to design appropriate mitigation measures.
- Optimization of System Design: CFD can optimize the design of piping systems to reduce the risk of water hammer, such as by adjusting pipe diameters, adding surge tanks, or modifying valve configurations.
- Validation of Experimental Results: CFD can validate experimental results obtained from physical tests, providing a more comprehensive understanding of water hammer behaviour in specific systems.
- Cost-Effective Analysis: CFD can provide cost-effective analysis of water hammer effects compared to physical testing, especially for complex systems or when conducting parametric studies.
- Safety Improvement: By identifying and mitigating water hammer risks, CFD can improve the safety and reliability of piping systems, reducing the likelihood of equipment damage or failure.