DNV GL Launches New Bunker-Saving CFD Simulation Application

The new "Virtual Trial" application streamlines and automates the CFD simulation process. Image Credit: DNV GL

DNV GL's says its new "Virtual Trial" application allows yards and owners to use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation to analyse, compare, and benchmark the fuel efficiency of hull design variants at full-scale.

"What we have done with Virtual Trial is to let our customers run CFD simulations, without having to invest in CFD expertise," said product manager Carsten Hahn, DNV GL – Maritime.

"Virtual trials can be launched in complete anonymity, from anywhere, at any time, by simply uploading the hull geometry file and defining the operating profile."

The new application streamlines and automates the CFD simulation process, removing the need for expert support and allowing users to conduct full-scale Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations (RANSE) Volume of Fluid (VoF) CFD simulations on the resistance and propulsion of their vessel.

Users can upload individual vessel hull forms and run simulations with pre-set parameters, comparing their results to those of similar vessels in the Virtual Trial database.

"We see many potential uses of the Virtual Trial application," said Uwe Hollenbach, DNV GL - Maritime, adding: "design offices and ship yards can analyse and benchmark different hull options during the conceptual design phase, then track how design changes affect a vessel’s hydrodynamic performance.

"Ship owners can easily compare competing design proposals during the bidding process, gaining an impartial assessment of the designs at a fraction of the cost and lead time of model tests. For vessels in service, it could even act as a performance certificate, showing potential charterers or buyers how a vessel might perform within their operating profile."