OpenFOAM

The Open Source CFD Toolbox.

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Overview

OpenFOAM (Open Field Operation and Manipulation) is a free, open-source software for computational fluid dynamics (CFD). It is a C++ toolbox for the development of customized numerical solvers, and pre-/post-processing utilities for the solution of continuum mechanics problems, including CFD. Its open-source nature provides a high degree of flexibility and customization.

✨ Key Features

  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Incompressible and compressible flows
  • Multiphase flows
  • Heat transfer and combustion
  • Turbulence modeling
  • Customizable solvers and utilities

🎯 Key Differentiators

  • Free and open-source
  • Highly customizable and extensible
  • Large and active user community

Unique Value: Provides a powerful, flexible, and free open-source platform for computational fluid dynamics.

🎯 Use Cases (4)

Aerodynamics and hydrodynamics simulation Internal combustion engine modeling Chemical process engineering Environmental and wind engineering

✅ Best For

  • External aerodynamics of vehicles
  • Simulation of turbulent flows in industrial applications
  • Modeling of fire and smoke propagation

💡 Check With Vendor

Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:

  • Structural analysis (FEA)
  • Discrete-event simulation

🏆 Alternatives

Ansys Fluent Siemens Simcenter STAR-CCM+ Autodesk CFD

Offers complete freedom and customization at no cost, but with a steeper learning curve and no dedicated support compared to commercial software.

💻 Platforms

Desktop (Linux, Windows, macOS)

✅ Offline Mode Available

🔌 Integrations

ParaView (for post-processing) Various meshing tools (e.g., snappyHexMesh)

💰 Pricing

Contact for pricing
Free Tier Available

Free tier: Fully featured, open-source software

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