ACES: Introduction to OpenFOAM

Overview

Instructor(s): Dr. Björn Windén

Time: Friday, October 31, 2025 — 1:30PM-4:00PM CT

Location: Online using Zoom

Prerequisite(s): Current ACCESS ID, basic Linux/Unix skills.

Introduction to OpenFOAM, the open source CFD toolbox, and how to use it on HPRC clusters. Hands-on tutorial on how to get started with running your simulations; as well as implementing new theories.

Course Materials

  • Introduction to OpenFOAM slides (Spring 2025): PDF
  • Instructions for OpenFOAM tutorial (Spring) 2025): PDF

  • Introduction to OpenFOAM slides (Fall 2024): PDF
  • Instructions for OpenFOAM tutorial (Fall) 2024): PDF
  • Introduction to OpenFOAM slides (Spring 2024): PDF

Learning Objectives and Agenda

In this course, participants will:

  • Learn the background of OpenFOAM and how it relates to other CFD suites
  • Learn how to load OpenFOAM and ParaView on ACES
  • Learn the basic steps of running an OpenFOAM simulation
  • Learn the basic steps of post-processing with ParaView
  • Learn how to modify a tutorial case to suit their needs
  • Learn how programming custom solvers is done in OpenFOAM

Note: During the class sessions many aspects of the material will be illustrated live via a login to ACES. Attendees will follow along and complete the exercises on their own laptops.