As a totally free CFD tool, can OpenFOAM replace ANSYS CFX and Fluent?

OpenFOAM (Open Source Field Operation and Manipulation) is a powerful open-source computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software package that provides a wide range of capabilities similar to those offered by commercial tools like ANSYS Fluent and ANSYS CFX. While OpenFOAM can be a powerful alternative, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

Advantages of OpenFOAM:

1. Open Source and Free: OpenFOAM is open-source software, and it is freely available for use. This makes it accessible to a broad user community and allows for collaboration and customization.

2. Flexibility and Extensibility: Users have access to the source code, allowing them to customize and extend the software to meet specific needs. This level of flexibility can be advantageous for researchers and organizations with specific requirements.

3. Active Community Support: OpenFOAM has a large and active user community, which means that there are forums, documentation, and tutorials available for users to seek assistance and share knowledge.

4. Parallel Processing: OpenFOAM is capable of running simulations in parallel, utilizing the computing power of multiple processors or clusters.

Considerations and Challenges:

1. Learning Curve: OpenFOAM has a steeper learning curve compared to some commercial CFD software. Users may need time to become familiar with the command-line interface, the setup of simulation cases, and the various solvers available.

2. Pre-processing and Post-processing: While OpenFOAM does include pre-processing and post-processing tools, they may not be as user-friendly as those in commercial software like ANSYS Workbench (used for Fluent and CFX). Some users prefer to use third-party pre-processing tools like Salome or Gmsh.

3. Application-Specific Features: ANSYS Fluent and CFX are known for their extensive range of application-specific features and industry-specific capabilities. OpenFOAM may require more manual customization to handle certain specialized applications.

4. Commercial Support: ANSYS provides commercial support for Fluent and CFX, including training, technical support, and documentation. OpenFOAM relies primarily on community support, and while there are commercial entities that offer support, it may not be as extensive as that provided by commercial software vendors.

Conclusion:

OpenFOAM can be a powerful and cost-effective alternative to ANSYS Fluent and CFX, especially for users who value open-source solutions, flexibility, and customization capabilities. However, the choice between OpenFOAM and commercial software depends on various factors, including the user's expertise, the specific requirements of the simulation, the level of support needed, and the preference for a user-friendly interface. Many users find success with OpenFOAM, particularly in academic and research environments, where customization and open-source access are highly valued.