Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a method that uses supercomputers and specialized software to solve gas‑liquid flow, heat transfer, chemical species behavior, particle dynamics, and other phenomena, and to conduct virtual experiments through numerical simulation.
When we modify or design large equipment for which prototyping is difficult in business (for example, modifying equipment in operation or designing large‑scale development projects), we verify the effects of the modification and design in advance using CFD analysis and make investment decisions based on scientific evidence. By doing so, we foresee potential project cost increases caused by design deficiencies and, through preemptive design improvements driven by simulation, contribute to revenue improvement.
From the scientific perspective as well, CFD analysis allows us to virtually visualize and predict, in three dimensions, information such as flow, heat, and reaction states inside equipment that are difficult to observe experimentally. This provides new insights not obtainable from experiments and contributes to research and development of components based on fundamental principles, as well as to investigations into the causes of problems.
The fields of application are wide‑ranging, and we engage in various project support and technology development to achieve both “a stable supply of energy and materials” and “the realization of a carbon‑neutral society,” which are set out in the group’s long‑term vision. Regarding the stable supply of energy and materials, we work to improve the efficiency of ENEOS refinery equipment and to reduce its risks. Toward the realization of a carbon‑neutral society, we strongly support, with advanced technologies, projects involving equipment design, for example in the fields of hydrogen carriers (Direct MCH®, MCH‑FC), synthetic fuels (catalyst manufacturing equipment), and biofuels (cellulosic ethanol bioreactors).
Use in hydrogen (Direct MCH®) field
ENEOS is developing Direct MCH® technology as an upstream process in a hydrogen supply chain.
If water transported from the anode in an electrolyzer prevents the toluene from permeating the cathode catalyst layer, hydrogen will be generated as a by-product thereby decreasing Faraday efficiency in MCH production. We therefore performed a CFD analysis to study a microstructure applicable to the diffusion layer on the cathode side.
In addition, we successfully scaled up from a lab-scale cell to a medium-sized electrolyzer. In this process, we created models for each type of electrolyzer, performed a CFD analysis of fluid flow and thermal flow for each, and reflected results in electrolyzer design.
We will continue to apply CFD technology toward “a stable supply of energy and materials” and “the realization of a carbon-neutral society.”
