How much RAM does OpenFOAM need?
 

How much RAM does OpenFOAM require to run effectively? I'm interested in understanding the system requirements for using OpenFOAM, including the recommended amount of RAM needed for smooth performance. Additionally, are there any minimum requirements for RAM specified by the developers? Any insights into optimizing RAM usage or potential issues related to insufficient RAM would also be helpful. Thank you!

Hello,

When running a simulation, the mesh and computed variables are stored into memory.
So there is no minimum memory requirement to use OpenFOAM, but the amount of memory will define the maximum mesh size you will be able to simulate.

As a rule of thumbs, you can expect to use 2Go RAM for 1 million cells.

Of course this is a rough estimate. Solvers needing to compute more variables might need more RAM.

I hope this helps,
Yann