PROJECT DATA

• Client: FAGOR Electrónica
• Date: 2025
• Technology: Thermal Simulation – CFD

   

INTRODUCTION

In this project, we carried out the thermal analysis and optimisation of an electrical cabinet for the F110 frigate. The study seeks to improve the thermal behaviour and dissipate the heat generated by the different components inside the cabinet.    

CFD Models

In this case, we start with the detailed geometry of the cabinet and its components and generate a model adapted for the thermal study, which will allow us to resolve the air flow and temperature field accurately and efficiently by reducing the mesh size requirements in regions of little interest. In this case, we will use the ScStream thermal model, solving the energy equation in the model in addition to the usual ones for air movement. We also solve the heat exchange between the solids in the cabinet by conduction, convection and radiation, the latter using the View-Factor method. First, we simulate the behaviour of the current model, comparing the results of the models with experimental data from tests carried out to ensure validation and correct correlation between the numerical models and the tests.    

Thermal optimisation of the system

With the validated models, we proceed to use CFD simulation to seek optimisations in the movement of the air that allow for better extraction of the heat generated. To do this, we work with different fan models, whose pressure-flow curves are entered into the numerical models. CFD simulation also allows us to easily evaluate changes in equipment components, both in terms of position and characteristics, enabling us to perform multiple iterations before deciding on the final configuration. The following images show some of the results of the simulations carried out in the project: