Visualize the flow with vectors in a valve model

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In Autodesk CFD, when using a results plane to visualize the flow through a model, you can enable vectors to better understand this flow.

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Depending on the degree of detail needed, vector settings can be used to control their display in your simulation model.

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In this example of a valve model simulation, the plane result is currently set to Static Pressure.

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Before enabling vectors, right-click the plane and select Plane result > Velocity Magnitude.

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Now, to enable vectors, right-click the plane and click Vector > Velocity Vector.

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Right-click the plane again and select Outline to make the vectors easier to see.

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You now see vectors within the outlined valve model, but there are not enough vectors to see the details of the results.

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To increase the number of vectors, on the Results tab, from the Planes context panel, select Vector Settings.

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In the Plane Control dialog, on the Vector settings tab, drag the Grid spacing slider toward Fine.

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Now, there are more vectors, but they are rather small.

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To make the vectors bigger, in the Plane Control dialog, drag the Length slider to the right.

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Finally, hide the outline around the plane.

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On the Results tab, expand the Planes context panel and deselect Show Outlines.

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The vectors show that the flow in the valve is very active.

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It accelerates around the poppet, circulates downstream, and separates from the discharge pipe on the inside corner.

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Knowing how to enable and control the appearance of vectors allows you to better understand flow through your simulation model.