Simulation Glass Rolling of Flat Glass

Figure 1: CAD model created with NOGRID's COMPASS

Figure 2: Setup simulation glass rolling case in NOGRID points' GUI

Figure 3: Temperature at a certain time step during glass rolling simulation

Figure 4: Animation of the simulation glass rolling case during inlet temperature change

The simulation of glass rolling is a key technology in the development and optimization of flat glass production and can perfectly be performed with our CFD software NOGRID points. The simulation software offers detailed insights into the flat glass production process. 

In the flat glass industry, glass sheets are typically produced by pouring molten glass between two rollers, which determine the final thickness of the sheet. As the glass comes into contact with the cold rollers, its viscosity decreases, resulting in a nearly stable flow behind the rollers. Due to the cold rollers the glass viscosity is decreasing and the glass behind the rollers is almost inherently stable. The animation in Figure 4 shows a glass rolling process based on a geometry published by G. Nölle in Technik der Glasherstellung, 1997. The color indicates the temperature. The inlet temperature increases over time; thus the glass sheet becomes increasingly unstable.

Simulation of glass rolling with NOGRID points 

NOGRID points computes the real glass flow and temperature distribution throughout the entire flat glass forming area. It is also possible to perform the flat glass rolling process completely in 3D. Comparisons with various experimental data have confirmed the high precision of the simulation of this intricate flow process. Thanks to short computation times, our customers can integrate the simulation into their design process - helping to identify optimal designs more efficiently, reduce development effort in the design phase, and increase product quality.

Capabilities of NOGRID points CFD software

Our software can accurately predict such effects and supports designers to find the optimal speed for their flat glass rolling processes. In addition to simulating normal flow behaviour based on Newton's law of viscosity, NOGRID points is also capable of handling non-Newtonian materials, including viscoelastic behavior.

NOGRID combines the capabilities to handle multiphase flows and moving parts within the domain, allowing the simulation of any conceivable geometry and operating mode, such as:

  • fully 3D computation solving the complete Navier-Stokes equations
  • easy and intuitive setup of the FSI (Fluid-Structure Interaction) cases
  • freely definable material properties by equations or curves
  • moving parts with complex of moving features
  • open or closed domains, including moving of additional parts
  • computation of temperature transport in the solid rollers and in the fluid

 

Why choose Nogrid?

 

NOGRID provides professional CFD software for the simulation of fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, and chemical reactions. Its efficient modelling workflow helps engineers analyse flow behaviour, evaluate designs and make informed decisions without creating a conventional volume mesh. 

 

Faster model preparation

With NOGRID, only the geometry boundary needs to be meshed. The finite points inside the fluid domain are generated automatically according to user-defined settings, both at the start of the simulation and during the calculation.

This approach reduces preprocessing effort and makes it easier to prepare complex geometries and cavities for simulation.

Efficient CFD workflow

The modelling process follows four straightforward steps:

Build the geometry. Mesh the boundary. Define the simulation. Start the calculation.

NOGRID is designed to provide short computation times, including for applications involving complex cavities. Engineers can use the resulting data to examine flow distribution and other relevant flow characteristics.

Better insight into fluid-flow processes

CFD solves the fundamental equations governing fluid flow. NOGRID software enables engineers to predict and analyse the behaviour of fluids and related physical processes before or alongside physical testing.

The simulation results can support:

  • evaluation and comparison of design alternatives
  • optimisation of construction and operating parameters
  • improved planning reliability
  • reduction of development time and testing effort
  • faster progression from design to market or operation
Easy Modelling

Steps from geometry generation to simulation results

TRAINING

 

Our two-day training courses teach participants how to set up, run and evaluate simulations efficiently with NOGRID CFD software. The courses include practical guidance for handling different types of simulation cases.

For more details please refer to Training Courses →

 

Technical Support

 

Professional support is available from the beginning of your work with NOGRID. Our technical team assists users by telephone and email with software operation, case setup and simulation-related questions.

For more details please refer to Software Support

 

Simulation Service

 

When internal time, expertise or resources are limited, NOGRID can support your project with individual numerical simulation services. Our engineers develop and evaluate CFD models based on the specific requirements of your application.

For more details please refer to Software Support

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Simulation Software from Nogrid

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