Cooling Systems and Thermal Management Application Manual and Tutorial
Cooling Systems and Thermal Management Application Manual and Tutorial
VERSION 2016
by
Gamma Technologies
GT SUPPORT
TELEPHONE: (630) 325-5848
E-MAIL: [email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: Introduction .................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Overview.......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Applications ..................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Data Needed to Build a Cooling System Model .............................................................................. 2
1.4 Data Needed to Build an Underhood Model (COOL3D) ................................................................ 3
CHAPTER 1: Introduction
1.1 Overview
Because engine thermal management tasks are typically distributed over several disciplines and they
concern different sub-systems such as coolant, transmission, oil circuit, intercooler, heater and A/C
system, and components such as thermostats, radiators, fans and pumps, a comprehensive CAE design
tool is required to integrate all of these related activities. GT-SUITE is an advanced code for design and
analysis of engine thermal management systems that has been specifically designed to handle this wide
range of heat management issues and disciplines. As a result, GT-SUITE can be used to integrate all of
the activities related to heat management to meet design objectives such as engine durability, emissions,
fast warm-up, passenger cabin heating, component sizing and specification, and system control.
GT-SUITE is based on one-dimensional fluid dynamics, representing the flow and heat transfer in the
piping and in the other components of a cooling system. Several parallel fluid circuits can be modeled
simultaneously, each containing a different fluid (water/glycol mixture, oil, transmission fluid, air, etc.).
These circuits interact through heat exchangers, transferring heat from one circuit to another, which
allows the calculation of the overall heat balance in the system. In addition to the fluid flow and heat
transfer capabilities, the code contains many other specialized models required for system analysis. By
being comprehensive, the code is well suited for integration of all heat management activities arising in
engine and vehicle development. In addition, it provides the flexibility needed to model advanced
concepts, and it also includes a built-in vehicle/engine simulation for calculation of thermal loads under
any driving cycle.
GT-SUITE features an object-based code design that provides a powerful model building facility and
reduces user effort. Models are built by a highly versatile graphical user interface, GT-ISE (Integrated
Simulation Environment), common to all applications which simplifies the task of managing object
libraries and building, editing, executing and post-processing models. GT-ISE minimizes the amount of
input data entry, as only unique geometrical elements must be defined; this reduces required data input.
Models are built by this point-and-click GUI from a library of GT-supplied or user-defined reusable
components. GT-SUITE is supported by an experienced team of developers and support staff.
1.2 Applications
GT-SUITE can be used for a wide range of activities relating to engine thermal management. Typical
applications include:
General
- Fluid properties
- System schematic
- Pressure regulation schematic (including tank volume)
Pipes and Flowsplits (or CAD file with geometry)
- Inlet and outlet diameter
- Geometry for bent pipes
- Surface roughness
- Wall thermal properties
Thermostats
- For conventional wax thermostats – lift vs. wax temperature (opening and closing)
- Pressure drop vs. flow rate at varying lifts, or effective flow area vs. lift
- Relationship between lift of other valves for multiple valve thermostats
- Time constant during transient operation
Pumps and Fans
- Pump performance data (volumetric flow rate as a function of pressure rise, speed, and
efficiency)
- Fan performance data (flow rate as a function of pressure ratio/rise, speed, and efficiency) with
inlet reference conditions
Engine and Engine Block
- Heat rejection to engine block as a function of engine speed and load
- Mass of structural material in engine block and head
- Volume of fluid in engine block and head
- Material properties
- Pressure drop data: this can be one reference data point, a table of pressure drop vs. flow rate, or a
power law equation of pressure drop vs. flow rate
- Heat transfer coefficient between fluid and wall
Heat Exchangers (HxMaster/HxSlave)
- Volume of both fluid sides
- Mass of structural material
- Material properties
- Geometry of heat exchanger (i.e. core height, core width, number of tubes, tube geometry, fin
geometry, etc)
- Experimental performance data containing the inlet temperature, pressure and flow rate for both
fluid sides, and a performance quantity (effectiveness, overall heat transfer rate, outlet
temperature for a single fluid side, or temperature ratio) and the fluids used in the tests
- Pressure drop vs. flow rate for both fluid sides and the fluids used in the tests
Experimental System Data for Calibration
- Flow rates, pressures and temperatures at all inlets and outlet of major components and branches
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General
- Location in 3D space and dimensions of heat exchangers
- Location in 3D space and dimensions of fan and fan shroud
- Location in 3D space and dimensions of any blockages (e.g. front fascia, grille openings, engine
block, etc)
- Location in 3D space and dimensions of any flow openings (e.g. underbody opening in engine
compartment)
- Inlet and outlet boundary conditions (ambient pressure, ambient temperature, C p , and ram
velocity, inlet and outlet pressure and temperature, or inlet and outlet flow rate and temperature)
- Fan speed
- External fluid type (including % humidity, if applicable)
Heat Exchangers
- Volume of both fluid sides
- Mass of structural material
- Material properties
- Geometry of heat exchanger (i.e. core height, core width, number of tubes, tube geometry, fin
geometry, etc)
- Experimental performance data containing the inlet temperature, pressure and flow rate for both
fluid sides, and a performance quantity (effectiveness, overall heat transfer rate, outlet
temperature for a single fluid side, or temperature ratio) and the fluids used in the tests
- Pressure drop vs. flow rate for both fluid sides and the fluids used in the tests
Fans
- Fan moment of inertia
- Fan performance data (flow rate as a function of pressure ratio/rise, speed, and efficiency) with
inlet reference conditions
Experimental Data for Validation
- Flow field results taken from various cross sections along the length of the cooling air flow path
(pressure, temperature, and velocity)
- Total air mass flow rate through each component
- Outlet temperature for the internal fluid of all heat exchangers
- Heat transfer rates of all heat exchangers
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Tutorial 2: Modeling a Simple Open Flow Circuit
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Tutorial 2: Modeling a Simple Open Flow Circuit
Click Next after selecting the "Cooling Systems and Thermal Management" option. In the next window,
an option will be provided to select the templates that will be automatically imported into the new model.
From this step, only select the option for General Flow, which include templates for boundary
conditions, pipes, and flow connections. The simple model that will be built will only include flow
boundary conditions and pipes. Click Finish after the General Flow section is selected to generate the
new model.
The project view at this time should look like the following:
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Project
Map
Project
Tree
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Template
Library
Templates
Object
Library
The Find feature can be used to help locate various templates and objects in the template/object library.
There are two ways to use the Find feature. The first is to locate the white box and binoculars button on
the toolbar, type part or the entire template/object name, and then pressure the binoculars button. The
second way is to simultaneously press Ctrl+F. In order to use either Find feature, the template/object
library must be the window that is in focus/active. Once a template/object has been found, it can simply
be included into the project map by performing a drag-and-drop function.
-Template
-Object
-Part
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Before starting to build the simple flow circuit model, select Save while in the Home tab to save the
project.
The attribute Discretization Length can play a role in the results of the model, but usually in the form of
how the results are reported. In addition to this, the more subvolumes created by the discretization length
can affect the simulation run time since each subvolume will be performing its own calculations. For
more details on pipe discretization length, please refer to section 1.3 Discretization in the Flow Theory
manual (File>Manuals>Modeling_Theory). For cooling system models, a discretization length on the
order of 30 - 50 mm is recommended (50 mm will be used in this case).
The attribute Initial State Name is used to set the initial fluid conditions at t = 0 for the flow volume.
Each part on the map can have a unique object defined for the initial state, but it is common to reuse the
same object for the complete circuit such that it is initialized to the same conditions. If running a model
to steady-state, the initial conditions of the flow circuit will have little influence on the model results, but
if running a transient warm-up, then the initial conditions can have a large impact in the performance of
the model. To define the initial conditions for the pipe, simple click on the button that looks like three
dots […] to open the Value Selector.
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The Value Selector is used to quickly point to reference objects that exist in the model, or to point to
objects that may exist in the template/object library. Reference objects are typically defined as an object
that contains a set of data that is reused among different objects. This allows a model to be built quickly
since the same information can be referenced without having to fill it out again. Select the
'FluidInitialState' object to define the initial fluid conditions in the pipe object. In the 'FluidInitialState'
object dialog that opens, provide an object name of 'Coolant_Initial'. Set the initial fluid conditions as 2
bar and 95 C. For the Composition, use the Value Selector to find the fluid object 'egl-5050'
('FluidLiqCompressible') in the GT-SUITE Library.
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Upon confirming the object selection, the fluid properties for 'egl-5050' will be automatically imported to
the project tree and the Composition will refer to the object name. The green text signifies the use of a
reference object. Click OK when the initial conditions have been defined.
Back in the pipe object, the Initial State Name will be filled in with the name of the 'FluidInitialState'
reference object that was just created. Every subvolume created in this pipe object will be initialized with
the pressure, temperature, and composition defined in this object.
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In the Thermal folder, set the Wall Temperature Method to Adiabatic. The heat transfer rate between the
fluid and the wall will be ignored at this time. Click OK when the selection is made to finish defining the
pipe.
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Because this object will be used as an outlet boundary, the Temperature and Composition will only matter
if the flow reverses back into the model, or if a negative flow rate is seen at the neighboring connection.
Click OK when the object is complete.
To define the inlet boundary condition, double-click on the 'EndFlowInlet' template in the object tree.
This object will be used to define an inlet flow boundary condition (flow rate). Name the object
'InletFlow' and select the Mass Flow Rate radio button option. The mass flow rate will be imposed with a
value that might have been measured on a test bench, but will be done with the use of a parameter so that
a case sweep can be performed to test the pressure drop of the flow circuit at different flow rates. A
parameter is defined with the start and end of brackets, [ ], that surround a character string. Type the
parameter [FlowRate]. The values will be defined at a later time. Set the Temperature and Composition
as seen below. Click OK when finished.
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will be created from the one object. To do so, drag a second 'RubberHose' object from the tree to the
map.
The numbers enclosed by a circle signify the number of required connections that are necessary to
complete the connectivity.
Drag the newly created orifice object onto the map between the two pipe parts.
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It is not required to manually create a connection between two components on a map. In most cases,
when a link is created to connect two components a default connection will be added automatically. In
this case, the diameter of a default orifice connection will be the smaller diameter of the two neighboring
flow parts.
Connect the parts on the map from left to right (as seen in the image below). A default orifice connection
will be placed between the parts if one does not already exist.
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The Automatic Shut-Off When Steady-State will be left as 'on', which means it is possible for the
simulation to end prior to the 10 sec defined earlier if a certain set of criteria is met for the fluid flow.
These criteria will be defined in the FlowControl folder, and optionally in the ConvergenceRLT folder.
If the Automatic Shut-Off When Steady-State is 'off', then the simulation will run for the full Maximum
Simulation Duration regardless of the criteria set for steady-state.
The FlowControl folder is where the solver setting are defined for the flow circuit, as well as a basic
setting for the steady-state convergence criteria. There are 3 types of solvers available in GT-SUITE:
explicit, implicit, and quasi-steady. The explicit solver is used for models where the effects of wave
dynamics are of interest (i.e. engine modeling). The implicit solver is used for models where wave
dynamics are not of interest, and the flow is steady (i.e. cooling systems). The quasi-steady solver is used
for models where chemistry is of interest (i.e. aftertreatment). The implicit solver uses an imposed time
step calculation method to solve for the fluid dynamics throughout the simulation. There is the concept of
time step convergence which is checked before advancing to the next time step. Additional information
on the solver options can be found in the online help for each template, or in section 1.2 Time Step
Calculation in the Flow theory manual (File>Manuals>Modeling_Theory).
Use the Value Selector for the Time Step and Solution Control object to select the 'Implicit' object option
from the library.
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This object uses the recommended implicit solver settings for cooling system modeling, as well as a
predefined set of criteria that will be used for the Automatic Shut-Off When Steady-State settings. The
Circuit Setup folder contains the information related the calculation of the time step, as well as the
definition for steady-state convergence criteria. The default (and recommended) time step for the implicit
solver is 0.1 seconds.
The Flow Settings folder defines the global multipliers for friction and heat transfer for all flow volumes
in the circuit. For example, the Global Heat Transfer Multiplier would be used to turn off all heat transfer
in the model between the fluid and the wall for all flow volumes in the circuit.
The Implicit Solver Settings allows one to control how the implicit solver works. It is recommended to
read the online help for each attribute prior to making adjustments to this folder.
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There are multiple columns in the FlowControl folder so that it is possible to set a different solver type
each flow circuit, or group of flow circuits. This tutorial only deals with a single circuit, so click OK to
finish Run Setup.
For this model, select Append Case to create an additional case, and enter a mass flow rate of 1 kg/s for
Case 1, and 2 kg/s for Case 2.
If there were other parameters in the model they would have appeared in a list form to be filled out as
well. It is also possible to reorganize the parameters into different folders, similar to Excel. A Case #
will only run in the corresponding checkbox is turned "on". Click OK when finished to complete and
close Case Setup.
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The storage for Case RLTs is "on" by default. This allows the final, end of run values like pressure,
temperature, flow rate, heat transfer rate, etc to be stored when the simulation completes. Turning this
"off" will disable the storage of this data. It is optional to turn "on" the Time RLTs if there is interest to
view RLTs at the RLT Calculation Interval. Click OK after the RLT Calculation Interval is defined to
complete Output Setup.
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Most results for cooling system simulations are case end (or end of run) results. It is possible to look at
time based results, but this will be covered in TUTORIAL 7: Modeling a Transient Thermal Model when
a transient simulation is modeled.
Go to the RLT Contour mode by selecting the button ( ) in the toolbar to view the case end results of the
pressure drop in the circuit. In the tree on the left, expand the Pressure option and highlight (select) the
Average Pressure value. This will color the map to show the pressure in the flow circuit. To view the
pressure results in each case one can use the case spinner in the toolbar to select a different case, or
alternatively double-click on a part in the map to open a window that summarizes the results for that
specific part.
This mode is useful when trying to compare the results between different parts in the model, or with
measured results. In this case, one can see that the pressure drop in the flow circuit almost doubles when
the flow rate doubles, with 75% of the pressure drop being attributed to the area restriction that was
defined in the orifice. In cooling system modeling, the significant sources of pressure drop are typically
caused by components, area changes, and friction, in that order. Knowing the expected pressure drop can
assist in debugging a model if unexpected results are seen. If the pressure drop does not match in flow
components, then the flow rate will not be correct. If the flow rate is not correct, then the heat balance in
the system will not match results. TUTORIAL 4: Modeling a Hydraulic System (No Heat Transfer) will
cover modeling a hydraulic circuit for a complete system.
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Click on the Value Selector for the attribute Pump Performance Object or File for column 1 in the Maps
folder. The Value Selector will give the option to create a new object using 'PumpMap' or 'PumpSimple'.
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It is always recommended to use the template 'PumpMap' when the measured performance data is
available. The template 'PumpSimple' is only useful when a general performance trend is known and the
performance data is not readily available.
Select the 'PumpMap' object to open the data input dialog, and name the object 'PumpMap'. The pump
performance data that will be copied over can be found in the file DataSheets.xlsx in the directory
..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\. The folder 'Pump' contains the
measured performance data for the coolant pump. The pressure rise was measured by taking the static
pressure difference across the pump, while the flow rate through the pump was recorded along with the
operating speed. The pump efficiency is calculated as the ratio of work required to move the fluid from
state 1 (inlet) to state 2 (outlet) against the power consumed by the pump. The excess energy will be
added to the fluid at the outlet of the pump and will be seen in the form of a temperature increase. Copy
and paste the data to the 'PumpMap' object, and select the correct fluid (egl-5050) from the library.
Warning: Be careful to select the correct units prior to pasting the data into the object.
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Note: If data was measured at different operating temperatures, the Temperature column in the
'PumpMap' template can be used to group the pump performance curves together. The solver will then
use the different temperature groups to calculate the correct pump performance. Usually only one fluid
temperature is used to measure the pump performance unless the fluid viscosity plays a large role. If
measured data is not available to take into account the effects of fluid viscosity, then the attribute Model
Viscosity Correction for Centrifugal Pumps can be enabled to predict the changes in pump
performance.
It is also possible to enter performance data for a reverse flow condition (negative flow rate through a
pump), and for an overstreamed condition (inlet pressure is greater than outlet pressure). This input data
is not commonly measured for a pump, but it is highly recommend doing so if there are multiple pumps
existing in the same flow circuit. This is because there is a possibility that one pump will force the other
to go into one of these regions. If this happens, and data is not provided, then the flow solution may not
be accurate at these operating conditions.
If there are multiple pumps in the same flow circuit, then it is highly recommended to enable the
Conservative pump model option in the Options folder of the 'Pump' template. For this tutorial, the
Standard option is sufficient. Click OK on the 'Pump' object to accept the input.
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Next is to create the test conditions for the pump to ensure it is operating correctly. Only a few test points
will be included, but feel free to test more. Append two more cases (a total of 3 cases), and set the
parameter [Pump_Speed] to 4000 RPM, and [Pressure_Rise] to 0.5, 0.3, and 0.2 bar, respectively. The
operating points were selected based on the performance data that was entered, and may vary from one
performance map to another. Click OK on Case Setup when the operating points have been entered.
Run the model at this time. Run Setup has already been filled out following GT recommendations for
testing standalone components. After the model has finished running, open the results in GT-POST.
A preprocessed plot of the performance map data is available in the GT-POST tree. The plot is called
Pressure Rise vs. Volumetric Flow Rate, and can be found under the PumpMap:PumpMap heading.
This plot shows the raw data as well as the map fit created. To see how the results of the simulation stack
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up to the original data, one can either view the RLTs of the pump and match the operating points to the
performance data, or merge RLTs with the preprocessed plot.
Select the RLT macro from the toolbar ( ) to merge the RLTs with the performance data. Select the XY
Scatter option, and click "Next" on the dialog that opens. In the next screen, locate the 'Pump' part by
expanding the tree view, and select Average Inlet Volumetric Flow Rate for the X variable, and
Massflow-Averaged Pressure Rise for the Y1 variable of Plot 1.
Click Finish after the selection is made. At this point the scratchpad will be opened with the newly
created plot. Next, drag the preprocessed plot of the pump performance map from the .gdx file to the
scratchpad. Then, drag the data set of the manually created Pressure Rise vs. Volume Flow Rate plot into
the preprocessed plot that is now in the .gu file. The screenshot below shows what the final merge of the
data sets will look like. Please note that the manually created data set was renamed to Simulation.
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If the plot is plotted (right-click and select View, or F4), then the operating points for the Simulation data
set will appear along with the original performance data. (Please note that the Simulation data set was
modified so symbols are displayed in order to make it easier to view the image below. If this is desired,
then double-click on the Simulation data set and go to the Display folder.)
If the pump was successfully built, then the Simulation data set should match up with the speed line that
was selected for testing. If not, then the test conditions and input data should be reviewed to ensure no
mistakes were entered.
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With the Single Fan Map option selected, use the Value Selector for the Fan Performance Object or File.
Three options are available: 'FanCoefficients', 'FanMap', and 'FanSimple'.
'FanMap' is the recommended template to use because it allows data to be entered as it will be measured
from a flow bench (pressure rise, flow rate, and speed). 'FanCoefficients' is another acceptable form, but
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it requires the measured performance data to be manually converted to the necessary input ('FanMap' has
the ability to do the conversion automatically if the option is selected). 'FanSimple' is only useful when a
general performance trend is known and the performance data is not readily available.
After selecting 'FanMap', copy the reference conditions and performance data for the fan from
DataSheets.xlsx. The folder 'Fan' contains the measured performance data for the fan. The reference
conditions are necessary so the solver can correct the inlet conditions of the fan to use the map lookup. If
the fan performance data was measured at difference reference conditions, then they must all be corrected
to the same reference condition before entering the data in the Data folder. The pressure rise was
measured by taking the average static pressure difference across the fan, while the flow rate through the
fan was recorded along with the operating speed. The fan efficiency is calculated as the ratio of work
required to move the fluid from state 1 (inlet) to state 2 (outlet) against the power consumed by the fan.
The excess energy will be added to the fluid at the outlet of the fan and will be seen in the form of a
temperature increase. Warning: Be careful to select the correct units prior to pasting the data into the
object.
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Note: Data has been entered for a negative pressure rise across the fan to represent an overblown
condition. If data is not entered in this region, and the fan attempts to operate with a negative pressure
rise, then the flow rate calculated will be the flow rate at a pressure rise of zero for the given speed.
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Next is to create the test conditions for the fan to ensure it is operating correctly. Only a few test points
will be included, but feel free to test more. Append two more cases (a total of 3 cases), and set the
parameter [Fan_Speed] to 3000 RPM, and [Pressure_Rise] to 400, 300, and 200 Pa, respectively. The
operating points were selected based on the performance data that was entered, and may vary from one
performance map to another. Click OK on Case Setup when the operating points have been entered.
Run the model at this time. Run Setup has already been filled out following GT recommendations for
testing standalone components. After the model has finished running, open the results in GT-POST.
A preprocessed plot of the performance map data is available in the GT-POST tree. The plot is called
Pressure vs. Mass Flow Rate, and can be found under the FanSpecs:FanMap heading. This plot shows
the raw data as well as the map fit created. To see how the results of the simulation stack up to the
original data, one can either view the RLTs of the fan and match the operating points to the performance
data, or merge RLTs with the preprocessed plot.
Select the RLT macro from the toolbar ( ) to merge the RLTs with the performance data. Select the XY
Scatter option, and click "Next" on the dialog that opens. In the next screen, locate the 'Fan' part by
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expanding the tree view, and select Average Mass Flow Rate for the X variable, and Massflow-Averaged
Pressure Rise for the Y1 variable of Plot 1.
Click Finish after the selection is made. At this point a new file (.gu) will be opened with the newly
created plot. Next, drag the preprocessed plot of the fan performance map from the .gdx file to the .gu
file. Then, drag the data set of the manually created Pressure Rise vs. Mass Flow Rate plot into the
preprocessed plot that is now in the .gu file. The screenshot below shows what the final merge of the data
sets will look like. Please note that the manually created data set was renamed to Simulation.
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If the plot is plotted (right-click and select View, or F4), then the operating points for the Simulation data
set will appear along with the original performance data. (Please note that the Simulation data set was
modified so symbols are displayed in order to make it easier to view the image below. If this is desired,
then double-click on the Simulation data set and go to the Display folder.)
If the fan was successfully built, then the Simulation data set should match up with the speed line that was
selected for testing. If not, then the test conditions and input data should be reviewed to ensure no
mistakes were entered.
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Lumped heat exchanger modeling can be used if the effects of high frequency pressure waves,
temperature distribution, or two-phase flow are not of interest. However, it is highly recommended that
all heat exchangers be discretized to a minimum of 3 subvolumes (ideally 5 subvolumes) so a more
accurate wall temperature distribution can be calculated when solving for the heat transfer rate between
two fluids. This is especially important when dealing with a parallel or counter flow heat exchanger type
because of the large wall temperature variations that typically exist in these heat exchangers. If a heat
exchanger is not discretized, then it is entirely possible that the incorrect wall temperature will be
calculated, which may over or under estimate the heat transfer rate between the two opposing fluids. The
methods of heat exchanger discretization can be seen below.
Flow Qm Flow Qm
Qs Flow Qs
Flow
Crossflow Counter/Parallel Flow
HxMaster/HxSlave/MatrixHx HxMaster/HxSlave
The heat transfer calculation includes the effects of the wall thermal capacitance, and the conductivity of
the material (if modeled). The temperature of the structure in a heat exchanger is calculated from a
balance of the heat transfer rates between the structure and the two fluids using the following equation:
2 2
+ +
= =
where:
h heat transfer coefficient
A heat transfer area
T temperature difference between the fluid and the wall
k thermal conductivity of the wall material
TW temperature difference between the surface and average wall temperature
t tube thickness
density of the wall material
V volume of the wall material
Cp heat capacity of the wall material
The temperature difference above is dependent on the heat exchanger configuration. For example,
parallel flow and counterflow heat exchangers use a modified form of the log mean temperature
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difference (LMTD). Other configurations typically use a correction to the LMTD. GT-SUITE has the
capability to model parallel flow, counterflow, and crossflow (single-pass, unmixed) heat exchangers.
The heat transfer rate from each fluid to the wall is calculated using heat transfer coefficients defined by
separate Nusselt number correlations of the form:
where
= = =
L reference length
k thermal conductivity of the fluid
fluid density
Cp heat capacity of the fluid
µ dynamic viscosity of the fluid
The coefficients for the correlation needed to calculate the dimensionless numbers can be stored in the
'HxNusseltCorr' reference object, although this will be done automatically if a heat exchanger file (.hx) is
used in the 'HeatExchangerSpecs' object. The coefficients for the correlation are extracted from
experimental performance data with the 'HxNuMap' or 'HxNuMapRefrig' reference objects.
The 'HxNuMap' reference object can be used to extract the coefficient C and exponent m from steady-
state experimental performance data. Different correlations (i.e. different coefficients and exponents) can
be used for laminar, turbulent, and transitional flow regions as illustrated in the figure below. The
coefficients and exponents of the correlation, as well as the Reynolds number defining the limits of the
regions, are automatically determined by a regression analysis that best fits the data provided by
minimizing the difference between the measured and predicted heat transfer rates. The regression
analysis will always be performed at the start of a simulation unless a heat exchanger file (.hx) is created
in the template 'HeatExchangerSpecs'. The quality of the fit can be viewed in GT-POST.
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Nu Correlation
Transition
Laminar Turbulent
Laminar Re Transition Re
Number Limit Number Limit
log(Re)
Open the part called 'Radiator' found in the project map. This part is the 'HxMaster' template, and the
heat exchanger performance data is all contained in the attribute "As Tested" Heat Exchanger
Specifications Object. To enter the geometry and performance data for the heat exchanger, use the Value
Selector to create a 'HeatExchangerSpecs' object (provide a name for the 'HeatExchangerSpecs' object).
The 'HeatExchangerSpecs' object is broken down into four attributes: geometry, heat transfer performance
data, master pressure drop, and slave pressure drop. The attribute "As Tested" Heat Exchanger Geometry
Object is where the geometry matching the performance data of your heat exchanger will be entered. "As
Tested" is used to denote the original geometry, because the 'HxMaster' template has the ability to scale
the geometry of the heat exchanger ("As Used") to predict the new performance of the heat exchanger.
Use the Value Selector on the "As Tested" Heat Exchanger Geometry Object, and select the
'HxGeomTubeFin' object to create a tube-fin heat exchanger (the other heat exchanger options are plate,
shell-tube, and general).
The Main folder of 'HxGeomTubeFin' is where the overall dimensions of the heat exchanger are entered.
This information can be measured directly, or acquired from a heat exchanger specification sheet sent by
a supplier. The geometry for this heat exchanger can be found in the file DataSheets.xlsx in the directory
..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\. The attribute Location of 1st Pass
Relative to Center of Heat Exchanger only matter is there is more than one pass entered (see Pass Detail
folder) because it is used to determine the internal flow path. The option Multi-Core Heat Exchanger
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should be selected if the heat exchanger has multiple cores. The attribute Number of Rows of Tubes is
measured along the heat exchanger depth, and is not to be confused with the number of tubes found along
the height (horizontal) or width (vertical) of a heat exchanger. The Inlet and Outlet Connection Diameter
is especially important because this diameter is used to determine the velocity of the fluid entering the
heat exchanger in the measured data when generating the Nusselt correlation and calibrating the pressure
drop.
The Pass Detail folder is where the individual passes of a heat exchanger can be defined; including the
tube and fin geometry for this heat exchanger type. Only a single heat exchanger pass will be modeled
("I" type), so only one column will be complete. If the heat exchanger has two passes ("U" type) or three
or more passes ("S" type) then more columns in this folder will need to be filled out. The attribute
Number of Tubes per Row (per Pass) requires the tubes to be counted along the height or width of the
heat exchanger for a single row and pass (43 tubes in this case). Knowing the total number of rows in the
heat exchanger, along with the number of passes and/or cores will allow for the total number of tubes to
be calculated.
To define the internal tube geometry, use the Value Selector for the attribute Single Tube (Master)
Geometry Object. The internal channel geometry for the heat exchanger tubes can be copied (or
measured) from the DataSheets.xlsx file. Click OK when finished.
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To define the external fin geometry, use the Value Selector for the attribute Fin (Slave) Geometry Object
(per Pass). The external fin geometry for the heat exchanger can be copied (or measured) from the
DataSheets.xlsx file. Click OK when finished.
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The tank geometry (Tank Detail folder) is the last piece of information that is required to be entered, and
is necessary to calculate the correct internal volume for the heat exchanger. The Tank Width attribute is a
quick method of calculating the tank volume, but the volume can be overridden by completing the
attribute Tank Volume as well. Click OK when finished to complete the geometry input.
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Back in the 'HeatExchangerSpecs' object, use the Value Selector for the Heat Transfer Data Object and
select the 'HxNuMap' option to enter the heat transfer and pressure drop performance data for the heat
exchanger. The object 'HxNuMapRefrig' should be used if one of the fluids used in the measurement of
the performance data was a refrigerant.
The Main folder of the 'HxNuMap' template is where the fluids used for the measurement of the
performance data are entered. These fluids are used as the reference when calculating the fluid properties
for the Nusselt correlation and friction factor that will be generated to represent this heat exchanger.
The Data folder is where the performance data for the heat exchanger is entered. The options selected for
the Type of Performance Input, and Master and Slave Flow Rate Input will adjust the columns in the table
to make it easier to enter measured data of different formats. Warning: It is very important to ensure that
the data entered has reached steady-state on the test bench, otherwise the heat balance for the heat
exchanger may not be accurate for the calibration of the Nusselt correlation.
With the combined data format of heat transfer and pressure drop, the Nusselt correlation will be created
first, and with the known temperature resolution in the heat exchanger the pressure drop will be calibrated
last. This method allows the preprocessing to more accurately predict the expected behavior for the heat
exchanger. Click OK on the object to complete the data entry for the heat transfer performance data.
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Back in the 'HeatExchangerSpecs' object, use the Value Selector for the Master (Internal) Pressure Drop
Data Object and select the 'FlowPDrop' option to enter the internal pressure drop data for the heat
exchanger. It is recommended to select the 'FlowPDrop' option because it allows a heat exchanger to be
calibrated so that it is predictive at all operating conditions.
Because the inlet and outlet pressure were measured for both fluid sides in 'HxNuMap', the attribute Use
HxNuMap Data? (Hx Only) can be enabled. When turned "on", the pressure drop will be calibrated
after the Nusselt correlation so the temperature in the heat exchanger subvolumes can be taken into
account. Additionally, since the internal heat exchanger is duct flow, the Fixed Friction Factor from
Correlation along with Varying Critical Reynolds Number for Best Fit will be enabled. These
options allow for the pressure drop of the heat exchanger to follow closer to Moody flow theory when the
Reynolds number for transition flow may be something other than Re = 2000. This is highly recommend
if scaled heat exchangers is of interest, or if a realistic friction pressure drop is warranted for duct flow. If
it is unknown when to select this option (i.e. external fin flow), the default option Calibrate Friction
Multiplier to Match Correlation will always attempt to find the lowest numerical error fit. Click OK on
the object once the options have been selected.
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The last piece of information to be entered is the external pressure drop of the heat exchanger. Following
the same procedure for the internal pressure drop, use the Value Selector for the Slave (External) Pressure
Drop Data Object and select the 'FlowPDrop' option. The Use HxNuMap Data? (Hx Only) option will
be selected as well because the pressure drop data is contained in the 'HxNuMap' object. However, since
the external side represents fin geometry (non-duct flow), the Calibrate Friction Multiplier to Match
Correlation will be left as the prefill. Click OK on the object once the data has been entered.
At this time the performance data for the heat exchanger (heat transfer rate and pressure drop) has been
entered. Turn on the attribute File Name to Store Calibrated Data and provide a filename with the
extension .hx so a file can be generated after the first time the heat exchanger is calibrated and the results
of the correlation can be stored for future use. This will save on preprocessing time for future model runs.
If the preprocessed results of the heat exchanger need to be viewed right away, click on the button that
says "Show Preprocess Plot". The heat exchanger preprocessing may take some time to complete, but
when it is finished the fitting of the performance data can be analyzed immediately. Afterwards, click
OK to complete the "As Tested" geometry and performance data entry.
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Back in the 'HxMaster' part 'Radiator', the "As Used" Heat Exchanger Geometry Object is used only if
scaling of the heat exchanger is of interest. If so, then a reference object will need to be created with the
new heat exchange geometry and GT-SUITE will predict the performance of the heat exchanger with any
imposed boundary conditions. The attribute Discretization Length (or Number of Subvolumes) should be
set such that a minimum of 3 subvolumes are created in the heat exchanger. With the current geometry
selected, a discretization length of 50 mm, which is also the recommended value for use with the implicit
solver, will generate 10 subvolumes in the heat exchanger core. Warning: When discretizing a heat
exchanger that is a crossflow type (i.e. HxGeomTubeFin), the upstream and downstream subvolumes
around the 'HxSlave' part must be a 'FlowSplitGeneral' part unless the "Pipe Length for Inlet and Outlet
Volumes" is enabled in 'HxSlave'. This is required because of the discretization rules used for the heat
exchanger.
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Run the model at this time. Run Setup has already been filled out following GT recommendations for
testing standalone components. If this is the first time the model is run, and a heat exchanger file (.hx)
does not exist, then it may take a few seconds to a few minutes for the calibration of the heat exchanger to
complete.
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*************************************************************
*************************************************************
However, as long as the heat exchanger file exists and is referenced, any subsequent run will skip the
calibration (since it is not needed), and will use the previous calibration prior to running the model. After
the model has finished running, open the results in GT-POST.
A preprocessed plot of the performance data for pressure drop and heat transfer rate is available in the
GT-POST tree. The plots for pressure drop (internal and external) will be in the group(s) called
FlowPDrop, and here the comparison of the pressure drop input data to the pressure drop calibration can
be made. The image shown below is the fitting for the internal pressure drop.
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The plots for the heat transfer rate will be in the group called 'HxNuMap', and here the comparison of the
heat transfer rate performance data to the calibration can be made. The image shown below is the fitting
for the heat transfer rate.
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To compare the results of the standalone heat exchanger to the input data, either use the RLT macro from
the toolbar ( ) to merge the RLTs with the performance data, or double-click on the part name in the
GT-POST project map to view the Case RLTs directly and compare the values with the preprocessed
plots.
With either method, the results of the simulation should match with the preprocessed correlation results.
If not, then review the input data to confirm that the test conditions are the same as the reference
geometry and performance data entered for the heat exchanger.
Alternatively, if the transient response of the system is of interest, then there are one of the three
'EngineBlock*' templates that can be used. Instead of imposing the heat input directly to the fluid, the
heat input is deposited into the structure (usually in the form of a heat rejection map), which warms up,
and then begins to reject heat to the fluid and also to the ambient boundary conditions.
Q
Flow
HeatAddition
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This object can be used to model auxiliary components such as an oil or transmission cooler, or cabin
heater.
Double-click on the part called 'Block-NoMass' found in the project map. This part represents the engine
of a system, and it requires very little input to complete the part. To complete the part, the Volume of
Fluid Inside Component should be the total fluid volume of the engine block (2.2 L), which includes the
water jackets and head passages. The attribute Heat Input Rate is where the heat source term can be
entered as a constant rate, map, or transient, but will be left as zero for the time being. To model the
pressure drop of the engine, click on the Value Selector for the attribute Pressure Drop Reference Object.
Select the template 'FlowPDropTableRef' so the pressure drop can be modeled while taking into account
the changes in fluid properties as the pressure and temperature changes. This option converts the pressure
drop data that is entered to a lookup table consisting of a pressure loss coefficient versus Reynolds
number. The pressure drop data of the engine, which can be taken from a flow test bench, can be found in
the file DataSheets.xlsx in the directory
..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\. Name the object 'Block_dP-
Coolant', and copy the pressure drop data to the object from the reference file. The Reference Fluid
Object, Reference Pressure, Reference Temperature, and Reference Area are necessary to create the
pressure loss coefficient versus Reynolds lookup table. The table is applied to the part at run time so the
pressure drop can be calculated using the instantaneous fluid properties that exist.
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Click OK when finished to complete the 'Block_dP-Coolant' object, and then click OK again to accept the
pressure drop object in the 'Block-NoMass' part.
At this time, feel free to complete Case Setup with the operating conditions of the fluid circuit to test the
behavior of the 'HeatAddition' pressure drop, or the temperature rise if a non-zero Heat Input Rate was
entered.
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After running the model, the RLT macro can be used to compare the resulting pressure drop to the data
that was entered to ensure the correct behavior is achieved.
EngineBlock
When using the 'EngineBlock' template, heat is rejected from the engine and is passed to a lumped
thermal mass model. This is the most basic template that can be used to have some sort of transient
behavior in a model. For a more physical behavior, please see 'EngineBlock-3Mass' or 'EngineBlock-
5Mass'.
Qext
Q
Flow Qint
EngineBlock
The engine block is assumed to have a uniform temperature, T wall , which is calculated from a balance of
the heat rejected by the engine, heat transfer to the coolant, and heat transfer to the environment.
The heat rejection rate, Q, can be obtained as a function of engine speed and load, or can be specified by
the user as a constant, function of time, or RLT dependence. The heat transfer to the coolant, Q int , is
calculated as
=( )
where hA is calculated as
.
=( )
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The reference value of hA is calculated from the temperature increase in the coolant and the temperature
difference between the coolant and the wall that are supplied by the user at the reference flow rate. The
heat transfer to the environment, Q ext , is calculated as
=( ) ( )+
EngineBlock-3Mass
When using the 'EngineBlock-3Mass' template, heat is rejected from the engine into an inner mass that
represents the cylinder liner, to the cooling fluid as a single volume, to an outer mass that represents the
remainder of the block material, and finally the ambient environment.
Q
Inner
Mass
Flow Qfluid
Qouter
Outer
Mass
Qamb
EngineBlock-3Mass
While the modeling approach is still primitive, it offers a more physical transient behavior when
compared to the 'EngineBlock' template. It is recommended to use 'EngineBlock-3Mass' as starting point
for any transient behavior in the engine block for a cooling model. This option does not handle thermal
distribution in the engine block because the heat rate is imposed. If thermal distribution in the engine
block is the primary consideration, then it is recommended to see the template 'EngCylStrucCond'.
EngineBlock-5Mass
The 'EngineBlock-5Mass' is similar to the 'EngineBlock-3Mass' template, except it allows two fluids to be
modeled simultaneously (i.e. coolant and oil) to capture some effect of the heat distribution in the engine
block. However, it is still recommended to use the 'EngCylStrucCond' template if the main focus of the
engine block is thermal distribution.
The Main folder contains the information for the source heat rate (combustion heat release), and the
structural properties of the engine block. The source heat release will have to be measured from a test
bench. Complete the Main folder using the information below.
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The Fluid folder is where information concerning the cooling side geometry is entered. This includes the
Fluid Volume, Heat Transfer Area, and Heat Transfer Coefficient between the cooling fluid and block
material. The cooling Heat Transfer Area is typically measured from the CAD geometry.
To complete the cooling convection coefficient, which is measured from a test bench knowing the heat
input rate and the inner mass and fluid temperature at various operating points, use the Value Selector and
select the 'RLTDependenceXY' option to create a lookup table for the convection coefficient. An RLT
lookup will be affected by the RLT calculation interval in Output Setup (Home tab), and will use the
result of the previous time step as an input to the lookup table for the current time step. The input
variable for the 'RLTDependencyXY' will be the coolant volume flow rate through the engine block. Use
the Value Selector to select the Volume Flow Rate RLT in the 'PressureLossConn' connection called
'Block_dP'. Select units of [L/h] prior to accepting this variable. The Initial X Input will be 0, and the
Dependence Object will point to a 'XYTable' object that is the lookup table for the coolant convection
coefficient. The measured data for the convection coefficient can be copied from the file DataSheets.xlsx
in the directory ..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\. Click OK for the
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'XYTable' when the data has been entered, and again on the 'RLTDependency' accept all changes and be
brought back to the 'EngineBlock-3Mass'.
The Ext. Convection folder is where the ambient boundary conditions are entered for the engine block
object. The Convective Heat Transfer Coefficient to Ambient can usually be estimated to be about 20
W/m2-K for stagnant flow, but will be higher for forced convection across the engine block. The
convection coefficient selected will affect the heat rate rejection from the outer mass. The Area for
External Convection to Ambient can be measured from the CAD geometry of the engine block.
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Click OK in the dialog to accept all changes to model the engine block.
To complete the pressure drop for the engine block, open the connection part 'Block_dP' that is
downstream of the 'EngineBlock' part. This object is a 'PressureLossConn', and is used to model the
lumped pressure drop of a component. Select the template 'FlowPDropTableRef' so the pressure drop can
be modeled while taking into account the changes in fluid properties as the pressure and temperature
changes. This option converts the pressure drop data that is entered to a lookup table consisting of a
pressure loss coefficient versus Reynolds number. The pressure drop data of the engine, which can be
taken from a flow test bench, can be found in the file DataSheets.xlsx in the directory
..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\. Name the object 'Block_dP-
Coolant', and copy the pressure drop data to the object from the reference file. The Reference Fluid
Object, Reference Pressure, Reference Temperature, and Reference Area are necessary to create the
pressure loss coefficient versus Reynolds lookup table. The table is applied to the part at run time so the
pressure drop can be calculated using the instantaneous fluid properties that exist.
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Click OK when finished to complete the 'Block_dP-Coolant' object, and then click OK again to accept the
pressure drop object in the 'Block_dP' part.
The image below shows one example with a constant heat input rate to study the temperature of the
masses and how they respond with a constant inlet fluid temperature. To turn on the temperature plots,
open the 'EngineBlock' part on the map and select the Plots folder.
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Alternatively, a detailed analysis can be performed by imposing a 'ProfileTransient' for the coolant
temperature or heat input rate to study the effects of a step change in one of these variables.
The section for Impose Lift is useful when a specific thermostat lift needs to be imposed, such as when
trying to confirm the thermostat pressure as a specific position, or ensuring a branch in the system
receives adequate flow at a specific fluid temperature.
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The thermostat temperature-lift profiles for the opening curve (temperature change over time is positive)
and the closing curve (temperature change over time is negative) can be entered independent of each
other. The opening curve should be entered in the Temp-Lift (Opening) folder.
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The thermostat pressure drop can be entered in the Area Calculation folder, and in one of two forms.
The more common data input will use the Calculate Effective Area Based on dP vs Flow attribute. This
allows the thermostat pressure drop to be entered as pressure drop versus flow rate at constant lift
positions. The solver will then calculate the average effective area for each lift position. Alternatively,
the effective area can be entered directly if the Enter Effective Area is selected.
Using the Value Selector for the Calculate Effective Area Based on dP vs. Flow attribute, select the
'FlowPDropThermostat' template to enter the measured pressure drop data for the main thermostat valve.
Name the object 'dP_Thermostat'.
The Main folder is where the reference conditions for the measured data are entered. The reference fluid
conditions and type are necessary in order to calculate the correct fluid properties, and the Reference
Upstream Flow Area is required in order to take into account the pressure recovery after the valve. The
thermostat reference diameter of 35 mm provides the upstream flow area of 963 mm2.
The pressure drop for the valve can be entered in the Measured Data folder. Separate pressure drop
versus flow rates profiles were measured at constant lift positions.
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Clicking on the "Show Preprocess Plot" button in the Main folder will display the calibrated effective area
for the pressure drop data that is entered.
Click OK on the 'dP_Thermostat' object to accept all changes, and again on the 'Thermostat' object to
finish building the valve.
Open the part 'ThermostatBypass' to build the bypass valve. The attribute Part name of Master
Thermostat should reference the part name of the 'Thermostat' or 'ThermostatHeated' part that is already
on the map. This reference will link the two parts together so the lift position of the thermostat can be
communicated with the bypass. The Lift Map folder is where the lift mapping of the thermostat and
bypass is entered.
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The pressure drop for the bypass valve can be entered by selecting the Value Selector for the attribute
Calculate Effective Area Based on dP vs. Flow in the Area Calculation folder. Name the
'FlowPDropThermostat' object 'dP_Bypass'. The reference fluid conditions and type are necessary in
order to calculate the correct fluid properties, and the Reference Upstream Flow Area is required in order
to take into account the pressure recovery after the valve. The thermostat reference diameter of 25 mm
provides the upstream flow area of 491 mm2.
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The pressure drop for the bypass valve can be entered in the Measured Data folder. Separate pressure
drop versus flow rates profiles were measured at constant lift positions.
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Clicking on the "Show Preprocess Plot" button in the Main folder will display the calibrated effective area
for the pressure drop data that is entered.
Click OK on the 'dP_Thermostat' object to accept all changes, and again on the 'Thermostat' object to
finish building the valve.
Once in GT-POST, use the RLT macro from the toolbar ( ) to merge the Thermostat Time RLTs
Temperature (X) and Lift (Y) with the preprocessed Thermostat plot that contains the thermostat
temperature-lift profile. The image below was adjusted to make the operating points easier to see when
plotted on top of the measured temperature-lift profile.
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A similar procedure can be done for the bypass thermostat valve as well.
The easiest way to test the pressure drop of the thermostat is to select the Impose Lift option in the
'Thermostat' part, and then impose the reference temperature in the end environment boundary conditions.
After running the model again, the Case RLTs of the thermostat and thermostat bypass valve can be
compared to the preprocessed pressure drop plots from 'FlowPDropThermostat'. If the thermostat is
behaving correctly, then the Case RLTs should match the input data.
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Method 1 involves spinning the coolant pump at a certain speed and then verifying the system
pressure drop versus flow rate. The issue with this method is that if the system pressure drop is
incorrect, then the total coolant flow rate will be incorrect as well. If the system pressure drop is
incorrect, then diagnosing the model to determine the cause of the issue is fairly difficult. It also
requires the coolant expansion tank to be modeled.
Method 2 (recommended) involves replacing the pump in the model with the template
'ClosedLoopFlow'. This template mimics a closed loop system to determine the system pressure
by calculating the pressure necessary achieve a desired (imposed) flow rate. By imposing the
total coolant flow rate at the location of the pump allows any issues with the pressure distribution
in the model to be easily identified. Additionally, the coolant expansion tank is not required for
this method, and should be removed if it exists.
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This information is already completed in the form of parameters, and the operating fluid will be 'egl-
5050'. If the diameters are set to something difference besides what is connected to/from this part, then
an additional pressure drop may be included in the system because of changes in area. Click OK on the
part after reviewing the entered data (nothing was changed).
Even though a heat exchanger is included in the model, the heat transfer rate will be disabled in the next
section and the heat exchanger will be treated as a flow-only component. It is not required to build the
full heat exchanger for this setup. If only the pressure drop for the heat exchanger is available, then a
'PressureLossConn' object can be used as a valid replacement in order to model the correct component
pressure drop. However, if heat transfer will be modeled at a later time, and the heat exchanger geometry
and performance data are available, then it is beneficial to include the heat exchanger because the project
map will not need to be modified when heat transfer is included.
The thermostat lift will be imposed directly to control the system behavior instead of relying on the
temperature to adjust it automatically. This is possible by selecting the Impose Lift attribute in the
'Thermostat' part.
The FlowControl folder is where the adjustment needs to be made to model a hydraulic system. Double-
click on the reference object "Implicit" for the attribute Time Step and Solution Control Object. When
the object is opened, it will be marked as read-only because it is linked to the GT-SUITE library. The
Flow Settings folder contains the attribute Global Heat Transfer Multiplier which must be set to zero in
order to disable the calculations for heat transfer between the fluid and wall of the model. To make this
change, right-click on the object name in the tree on the left, and select the option to Break Implicit
Link.
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Once the link is broken, enter a value of zero for the attribute Global Heat Transfer Multiplier to disable
all heat transfer between the fluid and wall of the circuit. Click OK when finished to accept changes, and
again in Run Setup.
Even though the Global Heat Transfer Multiplier is set to zero, it is still possible to see heat transfer in the
system. The attribute Heat Input Rate for the 'HeatAddition' template (i.e. 'Engine' and 'Cabin_Heater')
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acts as a source term direct to the fluid. Therefore, if this template (or others like it) is used in a model,
then it is recommend setting the value to zero as well because the global multiplier will not affect the heat
input rate. Otherwise, there will be heat transfer in the system which can either affect the results, or cause
the model to run longer than expected.
Note: Even though heat transfer is disabled, it is still recommended to model both fluid sides of a heat
exchanger. This allows a model to be switched easily between a thermal and hydraulic state without
making changes to the parts on the project map.
Run the model at this time. The simulation should be fairly quick because it is a hydraulic model with no
dynamics and all heat transfer, and heat input, disabled. Open the results in GT-POST after the model has
finished running.
Select the RLT macro from the toolbar ( ) to create a plot of the system pressure drop versus flow rate
using the Case RLTs at the two coolant temperatures (or thermostat lifts). Use the Volume Flow Rate (X)
and the Outlet Pressure (Y) of the 'ImposeFlow' part.
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Select the Constraints tab to organize the data sets from the simulation. Two constraints will be created
using the parameter [Thermostat_Lift] found in the Main folder. The Min/Max for the first constraint
should be -1/1, respectively, for the thermostat closed condition. The Min/Max for the second constraint
should be 9/10 C, respectively, for the thermostat open condition. Click Finish when the constraints have
been filled in.
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Upon clicking Finish, a new .gu and new plot will be automatically generated using the Case RLTs
selected and the constraints. However, the Case RLT selected for the pressure (Y-axis) was the outlet
pressure. This data set needs to be shifted by the reference pressure in order to get the correct system
pressure drop versus flow rate plot. Double-click on each data set created, and in the Operation tree set
the Y shift to -1 bar (1 bar was the reference pressure used for the test conditions). This will shift the data
sets by -1 bar so that the plot now displays the system pressure drop versus flow rate at the thermostat
closed and open lift positions. Note: The plot displayed below has had the plot axis label, plot title, and
dataset names modified.
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This is a common study that is performed to understand the behavior of the cooling system in order to
ensure various parts of the system receive adequate flow. The plot created can be used to compare to
measured results of the system pressure drop. Additionally, the RLT Contour mode can be used to
visualize the flow rate and/or pressure distribution in the circuit. The image below shows the pressure
distribution (bar) in the circuit for Case 5.
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When modeling a circuit with a constant heat rejection rate at the engine to investigate the steady-state
temperature distribution, it is recommended to use the 'HeatAddtion' template instead of an
'EngineBlock*' template since the coolant heat rejection can be directly imposed (this is a common test
bench measurement). The coolant heat rejection rate can be directly imposed for known test cases, or set
up as a map that is a function of engine speed and load. Both are viable methods, and it comes down to
personal preference. This tutorial will show how to set up the coolant heat rejection rate as a map in order
to show how to create a dependent RLT lookup.
There are three methods of setting the flow circuit to run when including heat transfer.
Method 1 involves using the same setup as the hydraulic system model where there is a
'ClosedLoopFlow' template at the location of the pump to impose the total system flow rate. The
coolant expansion tank should not be included with this method. This is a valid method, but it
will not be used in this tutorial.
Method 2 involves using the template 'ClosedLoopPressure' to impose the system pressure along
with the coolant pump. This method is recommended if a coolant heat rejection map will be used
because the engine speed will already be required. This allows the coolant flow rate to be
automatically calculated instead of imposed, while controlling the system pressure in case there is
an issue when introducing heat transfer to the system. The coolant expansion tank should not be
included with this method. This is the method that will be used in this tutorial.
Method 3 involves creating a closed loop system that involves the coolant pump. There will be
no 'ClosedLoopFlow' or 'ClosedLoopPressure' templates included. This method is not
recommended because if there is an issue with the heat transfer rate in the system then the system
pressure may go out of control. It will then be difficult to diagnose the model to find the location
of the issue. If this method is selected, then the coolant expansion tank must be modeled so the
system pressure can be regulated.
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This information is already completed in the form of parameters, and the operating fluid will be 'egl-
5050'. If the diameters are set to something besides what is connected to/from this part, then an additional
pressure drop may be included in the system because of changes in area. Click OK on the part after
reviewing the entered data (nothing was changed).
To create a coolant heat rejection map that is dependent on engine speed and load, the input parameters
for engine speed and load must first be created. To do this, open Case Setup. To declare a parameter that
does not yet exist, click on the button call Add Parameter(s).
This will open a new dialog where a parameter name and unit can be defined. Create the parameter
Engine_Speed (the brackets, [ ], are not required) with the units of RPM (Angular Velocity). Create a
second parameter called Engine_Load with the units of bar (Pressure). Click Add Parameters when
finished to declare the parameter for engine speed and load.
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Open the part 'Engine' on the project map (a 'HeatAddition' template). The attribute Heat Input Rate is
currently set as a parameter in case the coolant heat rejection rate would be modeled as a constant value
that varies from cases to case. Because a map will be used instead, use the Value Selector to select the
'RLTDependenceXYZ' template. This template will allow engine speed (X) and engine load (Y) to be
used to calculate the coolant heat rejection (Z). Use the Value Selector to select the engine speed
parameter for the attribute First Input RLT Variable (X), and again to select the engine load parameter for
the attribute Seconds Input RLT Variable (Y). The parameters can be found in the Main folder of the
Parameters section.
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Use the Value Selector for the Dependence Object attribute an select the 'XYZPoints' option. Copy the
heat rejection map data found in the file DataSheets.xlsx in the directory
..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\.
In the Grid folder of the object, select the radio button for the Internally Generate Y-Boundaries. This
will automatically create the bounds for the map data so a normalized grid can be used for the lookup.
Click OK when finished.
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Back in the 'RLTDependenceXYZ' object, set the Initial X Input and Initial Y Input to 0 in the
Initialization folder. Click OK when finished to complete the coolant heat rejection map.
Prior to clicking OK in the 'Engine' part to accept all changes, be sure to set the units for the Heat Input
Rate to kW.
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If coming from a hydraulic model where there was no heat exchanger and the pressure drop was modeled
with a 'PressureLossConn', then the 'PressureLossConn' should be removed and replaced with a heat
exchanger. This will be true for any heat transfer related component (i.e. 'HxMaster', 'HxSlave',
'HeatAddition', etc) where a significant exchange of energy will take placed that can affect the simulation
results.
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Double-click on the Wall Layer Properties Object reference called 'HoseWall3'. This reference object
models the geometry (thickness and material) of the pipe. Each column in the Wall Layers folders can
be used to model a different layer of the pipe or flow split wall (i.e. an air gap between two solid
materials). Click OK when finished (nothing was changed).
The wall boundary conditions for the pipe are accessible from the Wall External Boundary Conditions
Object reference called 'Boundary'. The external temperature and convection coefficient of the pipe are
set here. Click OK when finished (nothing was changed).
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Each pipe and flow split in a flow circuit model can use the same Wall Layer Properties Object and Wall
External Boundary Conditions Object, or a unique one. All pipes and flow splits in the model of this
tutorial are using the Calculated Wall Temperature option. More information about the wall temperature
solution can be found in section 2.1.5 Wall Thermal Solution (Reference Object) in the Flow Theory
manual (File>Manuals>Modeling_Theory).
The FlowControl folder is where the settings need to be confirmed to ensure heat transfer will be
included in the model. Unlike the settings for the hydraulic model, the Global Heat Transfer Multiplier
(Flow Settings folder) for the flow circuit that is found in the reference object for the attribute Time Step
and Solution Control Object should be set to "def". Click OK when finished to accept the changes, and
again in Run Setup.
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Enabling the Global Heat Transfer Multiplier to "def"(which will use a value of 1) will allow heat transfer
to be modeled between the fluid and wall of all pipe components in the model. Without it, the heat input
source at the location of the 'Engine' will cause the fluid temperature to increase out of control because no
heat can be removed at the location of the heat exchanger.
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The [Pump_Speed] can be set as a dependent of the engine speed with a gear ratio of 1.3. To do this, start
by typing an equation for [Pump_Speed] that multiplies the [Engine_Speed] by 1.3
(=1.3*[Engine_Speed]). Click OK on Case Setup when the run conditions are completed.
Run the model at this time. The simulation may take a little longer to run when compared to the speed of
a hydraulic system, but that is because the temperature of the coolant is changing to reach a steady-state
value based on the heat balance of the system that includes the heat input from the engine, the heat
rejection from the radiator, and the heat loss in all of the pipes. Open the results in GT-POST after the
model has finished running.
The most common results to view can be seen in the RLT Contour mode. This will either be the mass-
averaged temperature distribution in the cooling circuit, or the net heat transfer rate. The image below
shows the temperature distribution (C) in the circuit. This can be used to compare to test measurements
to ensure the steady-state temperature distribution is correct.
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The sensitivity of the thermostat lift as it responds to changes in temperature can play a role in the final
steady-state result. If the temperature distribution does not match measured results, the thermostat lift
should be compared as well since it can affect the flow distribution in the circuit.
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If GT-ISE is already open, COOL3D can also be launched by going to the Tools tab, and then selecting
COOL3D from the GT Applications dropdown.
When components are completed (built) they will be displayed in the project map (canvas) as a 3D
element, and the Template/Object tree structure will appear in the Project Tree.
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Component Toolbar
Project
Tree Project Map
(Canvas)
Similar to GT-ISE, there is access to the GT-SUITE library to import saved data such as lookup maps, or
component geometry (i.e. heat exchangers).
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Click on the Add button to point to the directory where the .gto object Components.gto is found, which
will be ..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\. This object library contains
the information for two heat exchangers, which will be used in the next section. This ability is useful
when attempting to keep a single source for all component data that may be commonly used. Click OK
on the Options dialog once the directory is selected to accept all modifications.
Open the GT-SUITE library to find a Components.gto tab containing the information to build a heat
exchanger.
Building a heat exchanger in COOL3D is almost identical to building a heat exchanger in GT-ISE. The
only difference in the component building process is the requirement of a position in 3D space. To build
a heat exchanger, select the heat exchanger icon ( ), or go to Builder > Add Object > Heat Exchanger.
The Main folder is where the geometry and initial conditions are defined. Use the Value Selector for the
"As Tested" Heat Exchanger Specification Object to import the geometry and performance data for the
Radiator ('Rad_Specs') found in the Components.gto.
Like 'HxMaster', an initial state name for the fluid is required. Using 'FluidInitialState', define an Internal
Initial State Name for the heat exchanger. Parameters were used for the pressure and temperature
attributes such that they can be reused later, and 'egl-5050' is the initial fluid composition.
The same parameter that was created for the initial fluid temperature was also used for the Initial Wall
Temperature.
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The Location folder is where the XYZ position of the heat exchanger can be set. The reference point for
the heat exchanger can be picked from one of nine locations. In this case, the bottom center location was
measured in CAD.
Optional: The Discretization folder is where the dangling port numbers (inlet/outlet connections) for the
heat exchanger can be defined to make it easier to integrate the model with GT-ISE. While it is not
required to enter a value for the Inlet Subassembly Port Number or Outlet Subassembly Port Number, it is
recommended to do so to make it easier to create the necessary links in GT-ISE. The inlet and outlet port
numbers for the 'Radiator' were set to 101 and 102, respectively. The numbers entered do not matter, and
they can be a different value as long as they are not duplicated.
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Click OK on the 'Radiator' dialog to complete the component. If successful, a 3D model representation of
the heat exchanger should appear in the project map. (The Visual folder in the object can be used to
change the color of the component.)
Before continuing, create a second heat exchanger to build a charge-air-cooler (CAC). Using the Value
Selector, the 'CAC_Specs' object can be used for the "As Tested" Heat Exchanger Specification Object,
the Initial State Name can use 'CAC_Initial', and the Initial Wall Temperature can use
[Boost_Temperature].
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The location of the 'CAC' will also be defined from the bottom center.
Optionally, the Inlet and Outlet Subassembly Port Number can be defined. Click OK when finished.
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The rendering of the heat exchangers will display the height, width, number of tubes, number of passes,
number of cores, and internal flow direction as defined in the geometry object.
The 'COOLHeatAddition' object that will be built will model a Condenser in the cooling stack. To build
a heat addition, select the heat addition icon ( ), or go to Builder > Add Object > Heat Addition. The
geometry and pressure drop data for the Condenser can be found in the file DataSheets.xlsx in the
directory ..\tutorials\Modeling_Applications\Cooling_Thermal_Management\.
The Main folder is where the geometry and heat input rate to the underhood airflow is defined. Use the
Value Selector for the "As Tested" Heat Addition Specifications Object to create a 'HeatAdditionSpecs'
object. The "As Tested" Heat Addition Geometry Object is used to define the geometry of the heat
addition component. Click OK when finished.
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The external pressure drop for the Condenser can be entered for the attribute External Pressure Drop Data
Object using the 'FlowPDrop' template. The pressure drop data can be copied from the DataSheets.xlsx
file. Click OK on the object once the data has been entered, and again to accept the creation of the
'HeatAdditionSpecs' object.
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The Heat Input Rate attribute in the 'Condenser' object will be set as a parameter so the value can be
varied.
The Location folder will set the position of the object in the model. Click OK when finished to create the
'Condenser' object.
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Method 1 involves using 'COOLFlowSpaceSimple' to build the flow space. The geometry of this
template is automatically calculated based on the geometry of the components that exist in the
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model. This is the simples form to use, but the flexibility of the shape is limited. If this option is
selected, only one flow space type is allowed in a model. This is the option that will be used in
this tutorial.
Method 2 involves using 'COOLFlowSpace' to build a customized flow space shape. The
geometry of this template has more flexibility and is controlled through the use of cross sections
extruded over distances. The location of the object is also explicitly set as opposed to be defined
by a relative location. If this option is selected, multiple 'COOLFlowSpace' objects are allowed
in the model.
The 'COOLFlowSpaceSimple' method will be used to define the constraints of the model. To build a
simple flow space, select the flow space icon ( ) and pick Flow Space Simple, or go to Builder > Add
Object > Flow Space Simple.
The Location folder is where the relative distances for the location of the first and last cross section will
exist for the flow space with respect to the components in the model. A value of 50 mm is a
recommended value to use initially, but can be changed to adjust the flow volume in the circuit. Define
the initial conditions of the underhood flow with the Initial State Name attribute in the Initial State folder
using the 'FluidInitialState' template. Click OK when finished in both object to create the flow space.
The flow space object create will wrap about the components that have been created so far.
A blockage will be added to represent the frame holding the cooling package. To build a blockage
('COOLBlockage'), select the blockage icon ( ), or go to Builder > Add Object > Blockage. The Cross
Sections folder if used to create the custom shape of the blockage. Similar to the 'COOLFlowSpace'
template, the shape can be defined by cross sections that are extruded over distances. However, one
simple method of defining the cross section of a blockage for the use of a frame is to set the Cross Section
Name to "def". A value of "def" will automatically use the shape of any flow space object that the
blockage is placed inside. All that is required then is to define the extrusion distance.
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The Location folder will be set to the following position to set the blockage location. In addition, by
enabling the attribute Create Holes for Intersecting Components any component (i.e. heat exchanger) that
intersects with the blockage will automatically create a hole in the blockage. This is especially useful
when trying to quickly create a frame around a cooling package when it is possible for the components in
the cooling package to change size and position. Any modification to these components will cause the
hole to adjust appropriately. Click OK when finished to build the frame.
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Method 1 involves creating a reference object to set the pressure, temperature, and/or flow rate
directly in COOL3D.
Method 2 involves creating a dangling connection to integrate the underhood circuit with other
flow parts in a GT-ISE model. This is the option that will be used in this tutorial.
To create a boundary condition, the flow space must first be selected. When it is selected, the boundary
condition ('FlowOpening') icon in the toolbar will be available. Select the boundary condition icon ( ),
or go to Builder > Add Feature > Flow Opening. Similar to the heat exchangers, the Subassembly Port
Number can be left as "def" and have a number automatically defined for the dangling connection. To
make it easier to integrate the model, a value of 301 will be used for the inlet boundary (the number does
not matter as long as it does not duplicate a number already selected). The Characteristic Length is
prefilled with a recommended value to create a flow volume to assist in the integration that will be
handles later. The value entered can be used to adjust the size of the flow volume created.
Note: Selecting the option Imposed Boundary Conditions Reference Object will allow the boundary
condition to be defined as a pressure, temperature, and/or flow rate.
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The Boundary Flow Direction values only matters for the sign used when reporting flow rate at the
boundary locations. If flow goes along the direction of the connection, then the flow rate and velocity
reported will be positive.
To define the shape of boundary conditions easily, select the Location of Opening for Flow option. The
value selected here will automatically create an opening for the boundary that is the exact same size as the
flow space at the location selected. If the Cross Section Name option was selected, then a custom shape
can be defined for the boundary opening instead, which may be useful when attempting to model flow
distribution patterns in an underhood model. Click OK when finished to create the inlet boundary
opening for the flow space.
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Repeat the process for the outlet boundary using the information seen below.
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Open Case Setup and set the value of the parameters that were created to *. This will leave the
parameters as floating so that GT-ISE will know to import them when working with the "main" .gtm
model. However, not all attribute can be set to a *. Those that cannot are the ones related to geometry
and location. In this case a value must be defined, but GT-ISE will still import them correctly when
requested. At this time there are no parameters for any location or geometry attributes, so it is safe to set
all parameters to a value of *. Click OK on Case Setup once this is done.
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Optional: It is possible to discretize the COOL3D model to generate an equivalent .gtm model file by
clicking on the Run Simulation button ( ) found in the toolbar. This button will automatically discretize
the model. This option is recommended if no studies will be performed on the underhood model (i.e. the
design is fixed).
The 'UnderhoodModule' part is an external subassembly (external model) that will reference the
COOL3D model created in the previous step. Open the 'UnderhoodModule' part so the COOL3D model
can be referenced. Once the dialog is open, use the Value Selector for the 3D Subassembly File Name
(*.gem/ghx) to point to the COOL3D (.ghx) file that was created in the previous step. Click OK when
finished.
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Alternative Method: If the COOL3D model was discretized in the previous step to generate a .gtm file,
then the Subassemblyl File Name (*.gtm) attribute will need to be complete instead.
The important thing to remember when preparing a model to run an underhood model from COOL3D is
the port number of all connections going to and from the external subassembly. This will be true for all
external subassemblies in a model. When connecting links, the port number should match the
subassembly port number defined in the COOL3D model.
The model is already prepared with the correct port numbers assuming the above list was followed.
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Optional: If the port numbers are different, then double-click on the link connected to the external
subassembly. Once the link dialog opens enter a new Link ID, and then click OK.
The 'FlowCircPartSelector' template allows parts to be selected to explicitly define the circuits that will be
created, as well as their name. Use the Value Selector for the Part Name Identifying Circuit column and
select two parts associated with the CAC and Coolant circuits (any part can be selected). If "def" is used,
then a random part will be selected (not recommended). Click OK when finished.
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Once the part names are imported, provide a name in the Circuit Name column for each part that can be
used to quickly identify the circuit when the solver runs. If the name is left as "def", then the part name
selected will be used instead. Click OK when finished.
Do the same procedure for the second column (Flow Settings #2) to define/name the ambient air circuit.
Click OK when finished.
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To define the solver to be used for each column, use the Value Selector for the Time Step and Solution
Control Object to select 'Implicit' for Flow Settings #1, and 'ImplicitUnderhood' for Flow Settings #2.
These solver objects are optimized for underhood models with COOL3D, and are recommended to use.
Click OK when finished to complete the circuit solver settings.
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Once all of the parameters are imported to the model, complete them by filling out the operating
conditions. Click OK when finished.
Note: The panel along the bottom of Case Setup can be used to visualize the geometry of the COOL3D
model if the location, dimensions, and/or components of the model were being changed from one case to
another.
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Run the model at this time. The simulation will not start immediately because it is discretizing the
COOL3D model. Once the process is completed (it should only take a few seconds) the solver will begin
to run the two operating cases defined.
Use the RLT Contour Mode in GT-POST to view the steady-state coolant temperature. It is also possible
to view other steady-state RLTs by double-clicking on any part to open the results summary dialog (i.e.
flow rate, outlet heat exchanger temperatures, etc).
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A grille pressure loss and fan will also be included to build a model that can predict the underhood flow
rate at various vehicle speeds.
The model is set up to run an imposed total air flow rate of 1.7 kg/s. It is important that the other
boundary conditions are entered correctly to match the target test as well. After running the model, the
flow rate through the Condenser is only 0.781 kg/s, whereas the target flow rate is 0.9 kg/s. To force
more flow through the Condenser, a resistance will be added to the underhood model around the
Condenser. Open the underhood model by right-clicking on the part 'UnderhoodModule' and selecting
Open External Subassembly. This will automatically launch the underhood model in COOL3D.
In the Location folder, set the X position such that it is in the same plane as the Condenser. Click OK
when finished to create the resistance plane around the Condenser.
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Before going back to GT-ISE, access the Case Setup in COOL3D and set a value of * for the
[Cond_Calib_Cp] parameter. Click OK when finished and discretize the model ( ) to generate a .gtm
file.
Back in GT-ISE, open the 'UnderhoodModule' part and point to the .gtm file that was created in the
Subassembly File Name (*.gtm) attribute. Calibrating an underhood model involves working with the
fixed location and geometry of the components. To speed up the calibration the .gtm file is being used
instead. Click OK when finished.
Access Case Setup and select the Subassembly Parameters button to import the newly created parameter.
Set the initial value of the [Cond_Calib_Cp] parameter to 1 (this vale will be overridden later on when
calibrating). Click OK when finished.
To calibrate the pressure loss coefficient around the Condenser go to the Home tab and select
Optimization > Direct Optimizer. Enable the Standard Direct Optimizer, and set the Objective to
"Target", and the Dependent Variable RLT to be optimized to the external mass flow rate of the
Condenser. Use the drop down at the top of the Value Selector dialog to locate the external .gtm file
where the Condenser is located. The Target Value of RLT Variable will be 0.9.
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In the Ind_Variable folder, set the Parameter to be Varied to be [Cond_Calib_Cp] using the Value
Selector, which is the value of the pressure loss coefficient that will be varied to match the target flow
rate. The Lower and Upper Value of the Range, and the Resolution should be set to the image below.
Click OK when finished.
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At this time the model is prepared for the solver to find the correct pressure loss coefficient around the
Condenser that will yield the correct Condenser flow rate. Run the model at this time. The solver will
take a few iterations before it reached the correct value. Upon completion, the solver will report the
pressure loss coefficient that is necessary to achieve the desired flow rate through the Condenser.
******************************************************************************
INFO Optimization successful
Independent var, Dependent var and Target: 5.4317 0.9 0.9
The target value in this case is 5.4317. Copy/paste this value into Case Setup in GT-ISE for the
[Cond_Calib_Cp] parameter. If this calibration is sufficient, disable the optimizer in Optimization >
Direct Optimizer in order to perform a Case Sweep with different operating conditions.
Now that the cooling package is calibrated, the pressure boundaries, grille pressure drop, and fan will be
added to the model to calibrate the model for a vehicle speed condition in order to ensure the total
underhood pressure drop (target flow rate) is correct.
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Running the model will result in an optimization performed on the 'System_dP' part to find the pressure
loss coefficient that will yield the correct fan flow rate for the operating conditions defined.
******************************************************************************
INFO Optimization successful
Independent var, Dependent var and Target: 1.44032 1.7 1.7
******************************************************************************
Copy/paste this value in to Case Setup for the [Engine_Calib_Cp] parameter to represent the pressure loss
in the engine compartment. This completes the calibration of the underhood model.
Once in COOL3D, open the 'Radiator' object and go to the "As Used" Configuration folder. This folder
is used to define the modeling parameters for scaled heat exchanger. Use the Value Selector for the "As
Used" Heat Exchanger Geometry Object to create a scaling reference object. The scaling options
available for a tube-fin heat exchanger are the absolute dimensions, or the relative changes. Both options
are acceptable forms to model the scaling of a heat exchanger, and it comes down to personal preference.
Create parameters for the absolute dimensions for height and width. When the parameter is first created,
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a prompt to Case Setup will immediately open so the parameter value can be defined. This is required
because these attribute will affect the display of the model and therefore require a value at all times.
Select the Go To Case Setup option, and enter a value of 350 mm for the scaled height. Click OK in Case
Setup to be brought back to the scaled reference object. Perform the same steps for the absolute width as
well using a value of 600 mm. Click OK when finished.
Back in the 'Radiator' object, the Anchor Point will be adjusted to instead read "bottom center". The
option selected here will fix the heat exchanger in place at the location selected before the geometry is
modified. This is useful when there are constraints in the model that must be met. Click OK when
finished.
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Nothing will change with the display of the model just yet. The dimensions entered for the heat
exchanger geometry are such that no scaling is being performed (they were the same as the original
dimensions). Save the model and go back to GT-ISE.
Once in GT-ISE, open Case Setup and select the Subassembly Parameters option to import the geometry
scaling parameters from COOL3D. Now, the changes to the geometry of the heat exchanger can be
applied for various studies. The image below shows Case 1 using the original geometry as the baseline,
and Case 2 uses geometry that results in a shorter (height) heat exchanger. The remainder of the
parameters will be left alone since they match the operating conditions for the test that will be performed.
Click OK when finished, and run the model to test the scaled heat exchange performance.
Once the simulation is finished, the performance of the Radiator (i.e. top tank temperature) can be viewed
in GT-POST to see how it changes with respect to the new geometry.
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Tutorial 7: Modeling a Transient Thermal Model
This tutorial uses the completed models (and calibration) of the previous tutorials. It is recommended to
complete those tutorials first prior to starting this tutorial, which goes through how to complete a model to
run as a transient thermal system.
Open the part 'Overflow_Tank', which connects the inlet of the radiator to the low pressure side of the
cooling system. The Main folder contains the fluid volume, geometry, and fluid composition for the
overflow tank. This information can be acquired from the CAD geometry of the tank or bottle. The non-
default geometry option can be selected when heat transfer in the tank or bottle is extremely important,
such as highly pressurized storage systems.
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Note: The reference objects selected for the initial fluid states are important. Fluid 1 matches up with the
Port 1 connection of the part, and fluid 2 matches up with the Port 2 connection of the part. If the
references objects do not match with the correct port connection, then there can be solver instability in the
model. In this model, the coolant side of the cooling system is connected at Port 1, and the ambient side
is connected at Port 2 (to an 'EndEnvironment' boundary condition).
The Thermal Behavior folder is where the thermal solution for the overflow bottle can be created.
Similar to the Calculated Wall Temperature in a pipe (5.2 Heat Transfer in Pipes (Wall Temperature
Solver)), a material and external boundary conditions can be created to model the wall (material mass) of
the overflow bottle. Select the 'ThermalNodeInternal' reference object for the attribute Internal Thermal
Node Reference Object attribute. Complete the properties for the wall of the overflow bottle. Click OK
when finished.
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Back in the 'Overflow_Bottle', complete the external boundary conditions for the wall. Click OK when
finished.
Note: Optionally, the engine can be modeled with a detailed (or FRM) GT-POWER model. Integration
with the cooling system will be done through the template 'EngCylStrucCond'.
7.1.3 Imposing the Vehicle Speed Boundary Conditions for the Underhood System
With a vehicle in the model, the ram pressure boundary conditions for the underhood system can refer
directly to the part name of the vehicle. This will allow the imposed velocity for the boundary conditions
to automatically update as the vehicle speed adjusts.
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Open the part 'Ram_Pressure_In', which is the inlet boundary condition for the underhood system. Select
the attribute Vehicle Part Providing Ram Air Velocity, and point to the vehicle part (use the Value
Selector to find the vehicle part name 'CAR'). This combination of inputs allows the vehicle velocity to
be used for the inlet boundary condition. Click OK when finished.
Perform the same steps to define the vehicle velocity boundary conditions for the outlet
'Ram_Pressure_Out' part. Click OK when finished.
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Using the coolant temperature as the input (not yet defined), the fan will turn on to 1500 RPM when the
coolant temperature reaches 94 C, and will turn off (0 RPM) when the coolant temperature drops below
90 C. Click OK when finished.
Open the part 'CoolantTemperature', which is next to the 'FanController' part, to define the coolant
temperature input location. Using the Value Selector for the Signal Name or RLT Name attribute, locate
the Temperature RLT for the part 'Engine_Out', which is a 'FlowSplitGeneral' template. This part is
found after the engine block in the project map. Select the units of C before clicking OK because the
'FanController' is set up to use Celsius as the unit. Click OK to accept the signal. Create a description for
the signal in the Signal Description attribute, and then click OK to complete the coolant temperature
signal.
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Speed attribute. Use the Value Selector to pick the 'US06' driving cycle from the template library. This
profile is defined as km/h, so be sure to change the units of this attribute so it matched to the profile.
Click OK when finished.
Note: It is possible to set the imposed driving cycle as a parameter so that it can be varied from one case
to another in Case Setup.
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Note: The FlowControl folder is already set up to use multiple circuits as defined in 6.4.2 Creating
Circuits for an Underhood Model. Column 1 is set for the internal fluid circuits (coolant and CAC), and
column 2 is set for the external underhood circuit.
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Alternatively, if data storage is a concern, instantaneous time-based plots can be enabled in any part found
on the project map. By double-clicking on a part and going to the Plots folder the requested plot will be
stored if enabled. An example with 'EngineBlock' is seen below.
Data is only stored if the request is made. This is true for both instantaneous plots and RLTs. If it is
found later that a results or plot is of interested, and it was not turned on, the model must be run again for
the results and/or plot to be stored.
With the model completed and open in GT-POST, one is able to view things like the warm-up time of the
coolant temperature over the course of the driving cycle, the fan "on" time and power consumption, etc.
(Note: The plots seen below have been created using a .gu file to merge Time RLT data sets.)
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By being able to study these results, and others, one can use GT-SUITE to optimize the cooling system to
achieve the desired warm-up rate, coolant operating temperature, fan power consumption, etc. for all
operating conditions of the vehicle.
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8.1 Overview
An engine and the thermal management system that encompasses it have inherent interactions. These
interactions can have a pronounced effect on both systems. For this reason, it is occasionally necessary to
account for these interactions to accurately model the behavior of the entire assembly. This is possible in
GT-SUITE by integrating the engine and cooling system models. In general, this involves the application
of boundary conditions at several interfaces between the engine and thermal management system. GT-
SUITE accounts for the interaction between the engine and the thermal management system in three key
places as illustrated below.
1. Cylinder structure: This is the most obvious interaction. Heat transfer through the cylinder
components affects both the brake power of the engine and the temperature rise of the coolant and
oil.
2. Heat exchangers: This refers to heat exchangers which contain fluids from both the engine and
thermal management system (i.e. charge-air-coolers, EGR coolers, etc.).
3. Mechanical fan and pump shafts: These require power and; hence, affect the accessory load on
the engine based on the operating condition of the thermal management system. Also, the
operating point of the fan and pump are limited by the engine operating point.
Engine
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Some types of analysis do not require engines and thermal management systems to be integrated. In
many instances, however, the integration of the engine model and the cooling system model is required.
Examples of such analyses are listed below.
When an analysis does require integration, the fidelity necessary for the integration must also be
considered. GT-SUITE offers two methods of integration, indirect integration and direct integration.
These methods are shown in the table below. There are tradeoffs to both methods which must be
considered when deciding which method to use. Indirect integration means that the engine model and the
cooling system model are run separately. In contrast, direct integration means that the engine model and
cooling system model are run simultaneously.
In general, during the initial stages of system design the indirect method is suitable. The indirect method
is the faster of the methods with regards to solution time. The key trade off with the indirect method is
that there is no feedback to the engine, so the effect the cooling system has on the engine performance is
not accounted for. To completely capture the interactions of the two systems the direct method is
necessary. The key trade off to direct integration is that the solution time is greatly increased as the
engine model must be solved during the whole simulation.
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Engine Model
GT- POWER
Engine Model
GT-SUITE
Database
Cooling Model
Cooling Model GT-SUITE
Cooling Systems
Engine and Cooling System models run Engine and Cooling System models merged
separately and solved simultaneously
Run matrix of conditions with ENGINE, Fully transient boundary conditions (gas and
storing gas-side (steady-state) boundary coolant side) including charge-air-cooler and
condition data into database EGR cooler
Cooling System model extracts gas side Most accurate and complete integration
boundary conditions during simulation between the engine and cooling performance
and applies to finite element cylinder Easier to setup, but slower than indirect
models method
Fast solution times relative to direct
method
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In lieu of GT-POWER engine simulation results to reference, a cooling system model can be run with
user-imposed in-cylinder gas boundary conditions. If employing user-imposed gas boundary conditions
you may skip the Engine Model Setup section and go directly to the Cooling System Model Setup
section.
Wall Temperature Object: The engine model must use the 'EngCylTWallSoln' object for the
'Wall Temperature defined by Reference Object' in each 'EngCylinder' part. This object
parametrically defines the cylinder structure and approximates the coolant and oil boundary
conditions at a steady state condition.
Intake and Exhaust Ports: Care must be taken with 'Pipe*' parts directly upstream or
downstream of the 'EngCylinder' parts. The thermal solution seen at the location of the 'Pipe*'
parts must be passed to the FE model, and vice versa. It is recommended to check the option
"Full Thermal Solution Between FE Walls and Gas" in the 'FECylinderStructure' object found in
the corresponding 'EngCylinder' part.
Engine Friction: Both the engine model and the cooling model will account for engine friction.
To improve accuracy, both models should use the same friction model. See the table below for a
description of how friction models can be applied.
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Indirectly Integrated
Directly Integrated
Engine Only Engine/Cooling
Engine/Cooling Systems
Systems
Once the above requirements are met, the GT-POWER engine model should be run through a set of cases
that encompass the entire engine operating range or at least the engine operating range of interest. These
cases can be easily set up using the Design of Experiments (DOE) feature in GT-ISE. The engine model
will then generate a database of in-cylinder gas boundary conditions. This information is automatically
stored and later extracted from the *.gdx file.
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Engine Cylinder Structure - 'EngCylStrucCond': The cooling system model must contain a finite
element model for each cylinder structure (each consists of a cylinder wall, head, piston, valves, and
ports). This finite element model, 'EngCylStrucCond', is identical to the reference object
'EngCylTWallSoln' defined in the GT-POWER model. The same 'FECylinderStructure' reference object
used in 'EngCylTWallSoln' of the GT-POWER model can be reused in 'EngCylStrucCond'.
'EngCylGasBCs' allows a 3rd Independent RLT Variable to look up the in-cylinder boundary conditions
(in addition to the engine speed and IMEP). Models that use this third variable require a large number of
data points (i.e. many cases for the engine model). If the boundary conditions results are sparse, the look
up method used to interpolate from the data may not return acceptable results for the in-cylinder boundary
conditions.
Although it is not recommended, if GT-POWER results are not available or a user does not desire to
reference GT-POWER results, the impose boundary conditions in the Main folder of the 'EngCylGasBCs'
must be selected. The user must then enter temperature and heat transfer coefficient boundary conditions
for all in-cylinder finite element structure surfaces. No 'EngineState' object is needed for this
configuration.
Engine Operating Conditions - 'EngineState': An 'EngineState' part must be placed in the model
to provide instantaneous engine operating conditions to the 'EngCylGasBCs' parts. The in-cylinder gas
boundary conditions are interpolated from the GT-POWER output file based on engine speed and load
(IMEP). The boundary conditions are then imposed on the FE structure defined by the
'EngCylStrucCond' part.
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The State and Secondary Maps folders in the 'EngineState' part have three attributes related to engine
maps that should be completed. The information for these three maps ('Mechanical Output Map', 'Engine
Friction Map' and 'Fuel Consumption Map') may be extracted from the GT-POWER model outputs.
Coolant Circuit: The engine block and head coolant passages should be constructed from flow parts
representing the fluid passages and thermal parts such as the 'ThermalMass'. The linkage of these
components to the 'EngCylStrucCond' parts accounts for the coolant and other external boundary
conditions on the cylinder structure. While linking the flow and thermal components to the
'EngCylStrucCond' part, the connecting port numbers must be selected properly by double clicking on the
connection link. The port numbers indicate the boundary condition location (ex. water jacket, value guide
coolant, etc.). The remaining vehicle thermal management system including pumps, heat exchangers,
thermostats, etc. can also be constructed and connected as needed.
Oil Circuit: The engine oil circuit should be constructed with flow parts and thermal parts. The
'EngCylStrucCond' part should be linked to these components to model heat transfer from the lower
cylinder wall and back of the piston to the oil. As with the coolant circuit, the connection port number
must be selected by double clicking on the connection link. The oil circuit ports are 'Liner Oil' and 'Piston
Oil'.
A connection at Port #40 of the 'EngCylStrucCond' parts with a 'ThermalCompConn' connection is also
necessary to capture the friction energy from 'EngineState'. This connection transfers cylinder friction
energy to the cylinder structure. Alternatively, port #40 on 'EngCylStrucCond' can be made from an
external lookup map instead of 'EngineState'. CAUTION: The friction value from the 'EngineState' is the
friction for all cylinders; therefore, a heat rate multiplier should be used in the 'ThermalCompConn' to
reduce the value accordingly for each cylinder.
Both flow and thermal components can be connected to ports 34 through 66 of the 'EngCylStrucCond'
part. See the online help for the 'EngCylStrucCond' template for a description of these ports. Only one
connection can be created at each port. If one of these ports does not have a connection to it, then that
port is assumed to be perfectly insulated.
The image below shows what the indirect integration of the cooling system with the GT-POWER results
will look like.
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Wall Temperature Object: The engine model must use the 'Wall Temperature defined by FE
Structure part' in each 'EngCylinder' part. This option will allow the matching 'EngCylSrucCond'
part to share the same FE solution.
Engine Friction: Three types of friction models are available for direct integrated models. See
the table in the indirect integration section more information.
Engine Cylinder Structure - 'EngCylStrucCond': The cooling system model must contain a finite
element model for each cylinder structure (each consists of a cylinder wall, head, piston, valves, and
ports). The gas boundary conditions will be automatically determined from the connected 'EngCylinder'
part.
Coolant Circuit: The engine block and head coolant passages should be constructed from flow parts
representing the fluid passages and thermal parts such as the 'ThermalMass'. The linkage of these
components to the 'EngCylStrucCond' parts accounts for the coolant and other external boundary
conditions on the cylinder structure. While linking the flow and thermal components to the
'EngCylStrucCond' part, the connecting port numbers must be selected properly by double clicking on the
connection link. The port numbers indicate the boundary condition location (ex. water jacket, value guide
coolant, etc.). The remaining vehicle thermal management system including pumps, heat exchangers,
thermostats, etc. can also be constructed and connected as needed.
Oil Circuit: The engine oil circuit should be constructed with flow parts and thermal parts. The
'EngCylStrucCond' part should be linked to these components to model heat transfer from the lower
cylinder wall and back of the piston to the oil. As with the coolant circuit, the connection port number
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must be selected by double clicking on the connection link. The typical oil circuit ports are 'Liner Oil'
and 'Piston Oil'.
Connections: Both flow and thermal components can be connected to ports 34 through 66 of the
'EngCylStrucCond' part. See the online help for the 'EngCylStrucCond' template for a description of
these ports. Only one connection can be created at each port. If one of these ports does not have a
connection to it, then that port is assumed to be perfectly insulated.
The license used by one of the models should be changed to GT-SUITE. This can be done from the
Change License option in the File tab. At this point, the second model can be copied and pasted onto the
map of the first model.
Connections between the engine and the cooling system must be made at the interfaces between the
engine and thermal management system (cylinder structure, heat exchangers, and mechanical fans and
pumps).
Cylinder Structure: A 'MultipleThermalBConn' is used to connect each 'EngCylinder' part to its
corresponding 'EngCylStrucCond' part.
Heat Exchangers: A link should be created to connect 'HxMaster' and 'HxSlave' parts from the
engine and cooling circuits together.
Mechanical Fans and Pumps: Although it is possible to directly link auxiliary pumps or fans to
the engine crankshaft, generally it is preferred to make an indirect link using 'RLTDependence*'
objects or controls. This avoids aliasing of the engine speed (which will fluctuate within 1 engine
cycle if the engine is in "load mode") when it is sampled at a much lower frequency for the
cooling circuit (and not necessarily at the same point within each engine cycle). The speed of the
pump/fan should be imposed using a 'SpeedBoundaryRot' part with an 'RLTDependence*' which
points to a 'Shaft' (average shaft speed) that is connected to the 'EngineCrankTrain'. A 'Torque'
on the 'Shaft' can be used to apply the average pump/fan load back to the 'EngineCrankTrain'.
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Run Setup: The Time Control Flag in Run Setup should generally be set to "periodic". Assuming that
the model will be used for transient simulations (varying engine speed), the Improved Solution
Sequence for Multi-Circuit Models should be turned "on". This setting enables the Time Control Flag
for the cooling circuits to be overridden to "continuous" within the FlowControl folder (the engine and
cooling circuits should be separated in the FlowControl folder). The time step for the cooling circuits
may then be imposed in seconds (not in crank angle degrees) and can be left to "def" if desired. The
Thermal Solver should also be set to "transient" if the Improved Solution Sequence for Multi-Circuit
Models is "on".
After running the model for the first time, the time step should be checked for each circuit. If the cooling
circuits do not have the expected step size that was imposed in Run Setup, then it is possible that the step
size was limited by an ODE circuit (mechanical or controls). If this occurs, the Maximum Ratio of
Flow/ODE Time Step attribute in the 'ODEControlExplici' object (ODEControl folder of Run Setup) can
be set to "ign" to avoid the unwanted time step limitation.
Output Setup: The RLT Calculation Interval (Continuous Circuits) should be set to define the interval
over which RLT's are calculated for all continuous circuits. It is recommended to pick a value that is
equivalent to the time step taken by the cooling circuits.
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9.1 Overview
This tutorial has been prepared to provide guidelines on how to convert a typical vehicle cooling circuit,
or other hydraulic circuit model, to a Fast-Running-Model ("FRM") by reducing complexity while
maintaining similar system results. This is useful when modeling a complex hydraulic system whose
layout is "fixed," and detailed flow results are not of interest. Application examples include:
The method of conversion/simplification presented here reduces runtime by reducing the total number of
flow volumes in the model; it is most useful when modeling a cooling or hydraulic system containing
many flow volumes. For example, models containing many hundreds of subvolumes have been observed
to achieve up to 5x-10x speed improvement after conversion. Flow networks converted and imported
from GEM3D often contain many complex pipe shapes, and use many subvolumes to model accurately;
this type of model is a good candidate for FRM conversion.
In order to ensure that the fluid temperature remained constant in each case, and through the full system,
all heat inputs were set to 0 in 'HeatAddition' parts (the engine and EGR cooler), and the "Ignore Energy
Input to Fluid" attribute was checked in the "Options" folder of the 'WaterPump'. Additionally, the
thermal wall solver was deactivated by setting the "Global Heat Transfer Multiplier" attribute to 0 in the
"Flow Settings" folder of the 'FlowControlImplicit' reference object "Implicit."
To follow along with this tutorial, save a copy of the model with a new name, and run it.
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View the results in GT-POST, and note the minimum and maximum coolant pressures in the system
across all of the runs. This will help to select a meaningful choice of operating conditions when
simplifying the model:
Note that these requirements do not exclude components such as a 'Hx*' or 'HeatAddition' parts, provided
that heat transfer is not of interest and is not included in the full system model. Similarly, a non-default
'OrificeConn' or a valve may be included in a flow branch, provided that its position remains fixed across
the entire range of full system operating conditions, and it is not the first or last part of a flow branch.
Viewing the "Flow Solution Numerics" table in GT-POST shows that the full system model contains 297
total flow volumes in the "Coolant" circuit. In order to judge which flow branches offer the best potential
for improvement, in GT-POST, view the RLT Contour Map for Flow Control--Number of Subvolumes.
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This will show which flow branches have the most subvolumes, and offer the most potential for
simplification.
The heater inlet branch appears to offer the biggest potential improvement, as the 2 'PipeTable' parts
("Heater_In_1" and "Heater_In_2") contain a total of 60 subvolumes. We will choose this branch to
simplify first. Note that the heater inlet branch could be combined with the "Cabin-Heater,"
"PrLoss_Cabin_Heater," and the outlet branch to form a single simplified flow branch if the heat transfer
of the "Cabin-Heater" is not modeled in the full system model. But for this tutorial, we will assume it is of
interest, and simplify the inlet and outlet branches separately.
Heater Inlet
Branch
RLT Contour of Full System: Flow Control--Number of Subvolumes
1. Select the 2 parts in the heater inlet branch (including the 'OrificeConn' between them) in the full
system model and copy them. Paste them into the flow bench model and link them as shown
below, making sure that flow direction through the branch is the same as in the system model.
Any parameters present in the pasted parts may be pasted safely; if there are conflicting
parameters, choose the "Keep Existing" option to maintain the values present in the flow bench
model. If given the choice, do not append cases when pasting.
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Heater inlet flow branch, as pasted and linked into flow bench model
Now open the results for the flow bench simulation in GT-POST. View the Case RLT results for
Reynolds Number for either of the parts, and verify that it covers the Re range seen in the full model for
that part. For example, the Re range in the flow bench model for "Heater_In_1" is approx. 190-64,000.
The full system model shows a Re range of approx. 900-25,000 for the same part, so we can be confident
that the full range is covered.
NOTE: By entering the max. and min. system pressures as the boundary conditions for a single flow
branch, we are consistently over-estimating the total pressure drop through any single flow branch of a
model. Although this is a fast and easy method, a better flow bench representation may be obtained by
more accurately evaluating the max. and min. pressures across each individual branch. For example, in
the full system model for this tutorial, evaluating these pressures across the heater inlet branch gives:
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This giv bar, rather than the 1.05 bar used here in the full system pressure method, which
will result in a Re range more closely matching that of the real operating conditions.
1. From the flow bench model, copy the 'FlowPDropTableRef' object called "Template," and paste it
into the full system model. Rename the object to indicate the flow branch, for example,
"HeaterIn" in this case.
2. Open the object, and in the "Main" folder, enter the reference fluid, pressure, and temperature
values; note that these reference conditions should match the [Fluid], [T-Fluid], and [P-max-
system] flow bench parameters:
3. In the "Measured Data (Forward) folder, paste the Case RLT data from the 'RLTCreator' part
called "dP_vs_MassFlow" in the flow bench results. Note the units of g/s and bar in the
'RLTCreator':
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NOTE: You could also copy the 'FlowPDropTableRef' template reference object into the working model,
and customize the "Main" folder for that particular model, then using the "Copy and Edit Object…"
option each time a new one is created for each flow branch.
1. Select all flow parts to be simplified (including and 'OrificeConn' and other connecting parts
between them), right-click, and select "Combine Flow Volumes." This will open the wizard
dialog:
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NOTE: If the flow branch being simplified consists of only a single part, a neighboring orifice must also
be selected in order to make the wizard available. If no neighboring orifice exists, the branch may be
unlinked, and a "dummy" orifice may be created and linked temporarily, simply to allow the wizard to
run.
2. In the first screen of the wizard (Template and Port Selection), select "Combine flow volumes to
Flowsplit" and click Next. In the next screen (Port Assignments and Directions), accept the
default port positions, and click Next.
3. In the final screen (Object Attribute Definition and Object Naming), a list of objects contained in
the flow branch is shown; one of them must be selected to supply non-geometric attribute values,
such as fluid initial state, surface finish, thermal options, etc, to the resulting flowsplit.
NOTE: The thermal options are typically of greatest interest, as a flow branch containing many parts
may use more than one different wall temperature solution method and/or 'WallTempSolver' object (for
example, in this tutorial model the pump outlet flow branch consists of 2 parts using different
'WallTempSolver' objects). In this case, a warning will be given after completion of the wizard. A basic
strategy here (used in this tutorial) is to choose the largest of the flow parts (i.e. that with the most
surface area), to account for the greatest percentage of heat transfer to the branch. Alternatively, 2
different 'WallTempSolvers' may be used in the 2 resulting flowsplits, after the outlet flowsplit is
completed.
4. To continue this conversion, select the first part in the list of parts presented ("Heater_In_1" in
this case); this will present an object editor. In the "Main" folder of the object editor, edit the
"Volume" and "Surface Area" attributes by using an equation to divide the existing values by 2:
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5. In the "Pressure Drop" folder, select the "No Friction Pressure Losses" option.
6. In the "Boundary Data" folder, edit the "Characteristic Length" attribute by using an equation to
divide the existing value by 2, and ensure that the "Expansion Diameter" attribute for Boundary
#2 is the same as #1 (this value should be the same as the [Exp-diam-inlet] flow bench
parameter):
NOTE: The expansion diameters for boundaries #1 and #2 must be the same (and equal to the inlet
diameter of the full branch), even if the inlet and outlet diameters of the full flow branch are different. The
outlet diameter of the branch will be duplicated in a 2nd flowsplit.
7. Give the object a name to reflect the flow branch ("HeaterInVol" for example), and click Finish.
The flow parts have now been combined into a single 'FlowSplitGeneral' representing the "inlet"
volume:
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8. In order to complete the branch simplification, we must create a 2nd flowsplit for the "outlet"
volume and a 'PressureLossConn' to place between them. In this example, because the inlet and
outlet diameters of the original branch are the same, the "HeaterInVol" flowsplit part may simply
be copied and pasted on the map, for use as the outlet flowsplit.
NOTE: If the inlet and outlet diameters of a flow branch are different, a 2nd flowsplit object must be
created (most easily done with the "Copy and Edit Object…" command). For the outlet volume flowsplit,
the expansion diameters for boundaries #1 and #2 must be the same, and equal to the outlet diameter of
the full branch (and also equal to the [Exp-diam-outlet] flow bench parameter).
9. Drag a new 'PressureLossConn' object on to the map, and give it a name to reflect the branch. For
the "Pressure Drop Reference Object" attribute, select the 'FlowPDropTableRef' object that was
created in the previous step. Link the new parts to complete the conversion:
Heater inlet
branch, after
conversion
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Doing this incremental comparison with each modified branch will make it easy to see if a change to a
particular branch changed results, or if an error was made in the conversion process. The "before & after"
steady-state results comparison of this tutorial can be viewed in the included report file
FRM_Comparisons.gu in the tutorial directory.
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The transient models are also included in the tutorial directory, and the "before & after" transient results
comparison can be viewed in the included report file FRM_Comparisons.gu in the tutorial directory. Note
that the converted FRM runs 2-3x faster than the baseline model.
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