Steady-state and transient temperature simulation in Ansys
Sector: Precision mechanics and opticsThe development project is intended to show whether the Ansys simulation software is suitable for various tasks in the development of a heating block for an analysis system of Metrohm AG.
Summary
Task
Simulation saves time and money. But how strong is the significance of the simulation results compared to physical prototypes? Metrohm AG tested this using a heating block for the Rancimat laboratory device.
Solution
In the FE analysis with Ansys Workbench, a steady-state analysis was carried out as the first step, followed by a transient analysis (for example, in the case of heating up). The calculation results could always be validated with measurement results of the sensor integrated in the heating block.
Customer benefits
It was possible to demonstrate to the customer that CADFEM can answer demanding questions completely and precisely using the Ansys Workbench software. In addition, the customer was given the opportunity to carry out parameter variations and thus test the FE model of the heating block and the software themselves.
Project Details
Task
Metrohm AG is a leading global manufacturer of precision instruments for chemical analysis and, with the support of CADFEM, evaluates simulation software that is intended to answer important questions in the development of the devices. The development project is intended to show whether Ansys software is suitable for the various tasks, such as heating times, holding power, temperature distribution in the heating block, sample addition and heating asymmetry.
Customer Benefit
It was possible to demonstrate to the customer that CADFEM can answer demanding questions completely and precisely using the Ansys Workbench software. In addition, after project-related training, the customer was given the opportunity to carry out parameter variations and thus test the FE model of the heating block and the software themselves. The customer thus has the certainty that Ansys Workbench can provide very valuable services for the development and optimization of the heating block.
Solution
For quick and easy-to-handle processing and calculation, the symmetry of the heating block was utilized, and a quarter model was created for thermal simulation. During the creation of the FE model, the temperature-dependent material properties and the contact thermal conductivities were defined. Radiation and convection were also taken into account for the contacts. In the FE analysis with Ansys Workbench, a steady-state analysis was carried out as the first step, followed by a transient analysis (for example, in the case of heating up). The calculation results could always be validated with measurement results of the sensor integrated in the heating block.
Images: © Metrohm AG