Starting simulations after steady-state is reached
 

Hi,

I am simulating actuated flow in a fluid domain, which has to first converge to steady-state before actuation can be initiated. My intent is to study the varying effects of different actuation parameters.

Problem is, I run the simulation on multiple separate computers to see the effect of different types of actuation, and each simulation requires the solution to converge towards steady-state before the actuation can begin. So, what I end up with is 5 different sets of data whereby the first two-thirds of the solution is identical (converging towards the steady-state), and the last one-third unique (different actuation parameters).

Since I already have the solutions for the time-steps approaching convergence to steady state, could I in some way begin my simulation right at the already steady condition? This would save me a lot of time since it takes days for the simulation to reach steady state, and a lot of space for data that I already have and don't care for.

I tried making Fluent read the case and data files of a steady solution and then running it, but it is not working. Could someone explain how this could be done or point me in the right direction? Thanks!

Hi,

What kind of error does Fluent give you when you read the case and data? Because that is exactly what you should do. Simply compute the steady-state once, copy the result to all your other machines, and in each session at each computer you just load the steady-state case and data. Then you change your setup so as to apply different actuation and start the simulation. It should be that easy.