Flomerics Put to Good Use in Thermal Simulation

By DE Editors

Flomerics’ (Marlborough, MA) FLOTHERM computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software was recently used by AnJen Solutions to assist MagneMotion, Inc. in the design of a vertical lift elevator made of linear synchronous motors (LSM). AnJen Solutions performed a weight versus thermal performance analysis of the LSM rail heatsink.

The rail thermal load and vertical orientation required a more detailed thermal simulation than is typically done on horizontally oriented LSM rails that make up material transport systems. The vertical orientation results in non-constant heat transfer coefficient and rising ambient air temperature. The temperature of the LSM rail encapsulation material is the limiting factor.

The advantage of CFD is its ability to model the airflow around the LSM, which makes it possible to predict convection accurately. Flomerics’ FLOTHERM software is specially designed for the challenges of modeling thermal management of electronic and electrical systems.

FLOTHERM solved the complete thermal problem including conduction from the motor through the mechanical structure and the heat sink and convection from the mechanical structure and heat sink to the air. FLOTHERM solved the buoyancy equations to determine the airflow caused by the heat loading.

For more information, visit Flomerics.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.