CFD and FEM learning

[adrich91]

Good afternoon.

I am a chemical process engineer. I would like to get into the world of computational fluid mechanics (CFD) and finite element calculations (FEM).

Could you give me some advice on where I should start? Is it better to do a course and be self-taught or do a master's degree in my country (Spain)?

I would be interested in learning simulations of heat flows in a reactor, pressure drops in pipes, stresses in the wall of a vertical tank when it is full, half-full, compartmentalised with two different fluids...etc.

Let's see if you can give me some advice because I would like to be able to apply it in my work, even in a basic-intermediate way.

Thank you very much!

Best regards,

 

[rb1957]

I would start with self learning (teaching?). Many student texts, introductory primers, etc to work from. Pick a code that has good support (on YT for example ... SolidWorks ?).
I would suggest MIT's OpenCourseWare site (but many to pick from). Then think about formal learning if needed.

How are you on static stress analysis (as a Chem Eng) or Aero ?

 

[adrich91]

I don't have a deep knowledge of tensions or anything like that, so it seems sensible to start learning the basics on my own with a book and then, when I have a base, maybe do a course, right?

I've seen something about Open Foam (which is open source), do you think it's a good place to start?

Thanks a lot ^^

 

[GregLocock]

OpenFoam may be free but that doesn't mean it is easy. It has a very steep learning curve. It is used by automotive OEMs among others. Structural FEA would probably be the better place to start.

 

[rb1957]

we all learn things our own way. Your approach seems reasonable.

One thing ... I'd delink CFD and FEA. They sound alike but are very different. One thing you must have (IMHO) to use either effectively is an understanding of what they are modelling ... what is the physical real world that they are simulating. This to me is an understanding of stress analysis (for FEA) or aerodynamics (for CFD). Pick one, both would be too much !!

Or maybe you're interested in how the codes produce their "pretty pictures". I'm not being dismissive, I mean maybe you're not in this to produce technical reports, just for general interest. Then "play around" all you want.

Yeah, I know nothing of OpenFoam. My thought was if you're in this for real technical analysis, then use a reliable code. SolidWorks seems to be an easy FEA code to learn., seems very popular. I would stay away from FEA codes that are based on CAD codes. You might look to see which code has the most help on YT.

 

[broadtechengineering]

Hey @adrich91,


Great to see more process engineers getting into CFD and FEA — your goals are very relevant to real-world plant engineering.


For Engineering CFD analysis, since you're dealing with pressure drops and heat flow, I'd suggest starting with ANSYS Fluent or SimScale. Both have strong communities, free learning resources, and are easier to get started with than OpenFOAM. OpenFOAM is powerful, but as Greg mentioned, it can be frustrating for beginners due to its steep learning curve and lack of GUI.


For FEM, since you're looking at tank stresses, SolidWorks Simulation or Fusion 360 are good entry points — intuitive and sufficient for basic-intermediate analysis. Once you're comfortable, you can look into more robust tools like Abaqus or ANSYS Mechanical.


As for learning, a self-taught route with structured online courses (like from Coursera, edX, or SimScale Academy) is a solid and flexible option — especially if you're working full time. A master’s is great, but not necessary unless you're pivoting careers or aiming for a specialized R&D role.


Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of learning the theory — even basic solid mechanics and fluid dynamics will go a long way in helping you interpret simulation results correctly.


Best of luck, and feel free to reach out if you want help choosing a course or tool!
Daniel Tan