Multi-block parallel simulation of fluid flow in a fuel cell

Abstract

This paper details the development of a multi-block parallel structured CFD solver to predict the fluid flow in Fuel Cells, thereby facilitating its use as a design tool. A multi-block parallel code is quicker, has greater memory efficiency and has better geometry conformity than a single block code. The multi-block approach allows geometry to be altered easily with only the changed blocks requiring new mesh generation, reducing lead time for predictions of evolving geometry. Efficient use of such a scheme requires parallel implementation using a domain decomposition approach, as described below.