Where CFD time goes
In many CFD projects, the solver is not the slowest part. Engineers spend most of their time on geometry preparation: removing small features, closing gaps, extracting the fluid volume and setting up named regions. Then every design change means repeating it.
An integrated CAD–CFD workflow
Parametric CAD model (named inlet / outlet / wall faces)
→ automatic defeaturing and fluid volume extraction
→ export to CFD (Parasolid / STEP / native connector)
→ scripted meshing and boundary conditions
→ solver run (local or cluster)
→ extract results: pressure drop, velocity, temperature
→ update parameters and repeatTools and APIs
| CFD tool | Automation options |
|---|---|
| Ansys Fluent / CFX | Journals, PyFluent, Ansys Workbench parameters |
| Simcenter STAR-CCM+ | Java macros, design manager |
| OpenFOAM | Scripts and dictionary files |
| SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation | SOLIDWORKS API inside CAD |
| Autodesk CFD | Design study automation, scripting |
Make CAD models CFD-ready
- Name faces for inlets, outlets and walls so they survive changes.
- Keep simulation-relevant parameters (diameters, angles, lengths) clearly named.
- Build simplified configurations without fasteners and cosmetic features.
- Avoid tiny sliver faces that break meshing.
Parametric design studies
Once the loop is automated, you can run dozens of variants overnight: duct shapes, fin spacings, valve openings. Results feed charts or optimisation algorithms to find the best design.
Automating geometry preparation is often the fastest way to get more value from CFD licences.
CAD–CFD integration with ENGIMANDI
We automate geometry preparation and connect CAD with simulation tools. See CAD ↔ CAE workflow integration and our CAD integration services.