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Engineering Futures Podcast – Episode #3 Innovative Applications of CFD in the Food Industry

By Engaged Expert Tom Elson

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“Traditionally you have the adopters of CFD such as nuclear, Aerospace and Formula One, but with the food industry you have a bigger variety of problems over a range of things so it might be more challenging. Because CFD isn’t used as abundantly in the industry, there’s less knowledge of it, so there’s more onus on the experts to be able to guide the customer on what’s required and what methods are available.”

Tom Elson

Element Digital Engineering

Unveiling the Applications of CFD in the Food Industry

Have you ever wondered how your favorite snacks get their perfect shape or texture? This episode of 'Engineering Futures presents an in-depth look at the innovative applications of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in the food industry. We explore how this advanced technology, traditionally associated with aerospace, is now revolutionizing food processing and manufacturing.

The Broad Spectrum of CFD Applications Across Various Sectors

Our discussion extends to the versatility of CFD in a range of industries, highlighting its critical role in oil and gas, consumer products, and more. The segment focuses on how CFD's principles adapt to address unique challenges in each sector, particularly in the food industry where it's emerging as a game-changer.

Structural Modeling and Thermal Analysis: Pillars of Modern Engineering

The podcast delves into the significance of structural modeling and thermal analysis in engineering. This conversation brings to the forefront the interdisciplinary nature of these methods, vital in developing innovative solutions for complex problems, especially in food industry applications where temperature control and structural integrity are key.

Fluid Dynamics: A Cornerstone in CFD for Food Industry Applications

We spotlight the importance of fluid dynamics within engineering consultancy, emphasizing its role in the food industry. The integration of fluid dynamics and data science is crucial for devising effective solutions to complex challenges in food processing, making CFD an invaluable tool in this field.

Digital Twin Technology: Revolutionizing Food Processing with CFD

A central focus of the episode is on how CFD is used to create digital twins in the food industry. This segment explores the impact of digital twins on optimizing food heating processes and product design, illustrating CFD's transformative potential in enhancing efficiency and quality in food manufacturing.

The Delicate Balance in CFD Model Development

A key part of our discussion revolves around balancing the complexity and practicality of CFD models, especially in food industry applications. We examine the intricate process of developing detailed yet functional models that provide invaluable insights while being feasible for client use.

Exploring the Future and Expansion of CFD in Food and Beyond

This episode concludes with a look at the prospects of CFD, forecasting its growing impact not only in the food industry but also in other sectors. We share insights into upcoming events and developments, highlighting the evolving nature of CFD applications.

Why You Should Care About CFD in the Food Industry

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plays a pivotal role in transforming the food industry. Here are some of the key benefits:

  • Improved Quality and Safety: CFD enables precise simulations of food processing, leading to safer, higher-quality products.
  • Innovative Processing Techniques: It allows for experimentation in food design and processing, fostering innovation without extensive physical trials.
  • Enhanced Sustainability: CFD aids in optimizing processes for better resource efficiency, contributing to more sustainable food production methods.

Wrapping Up: The Revolutionary Role of CFD in the Food Industry

In conclusion, this episode from the Engineering Futures podcast is your essential guide to the transformative world of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in the food industry. We go beyond the basics, exploring both the profound impact and the innovative applications of CFD. From enhancing food safety and quality to driving sustainability, this episode offers a deep dive into how CFD is reshaping the future of food production and processing.

If you're keen to stay up to date on the latest trends in engineering innovation, this episode is an invaluable resource. Join us as we explore cutting-edge developments in engineering, brought to life through the lens of CFD.

Our Engineering Futures podcast series continuously ventures beyond conventional engineering subjects. We feature expert voices from Element Digital Engineering, illuminating groundbreaking initiatives that are redefining the engineering landscape. Covering a spectrum from data-driven simulation to hydrogen-powered aviation, our episodes are designed to enlighten, address complex engineering challenges, and span a diverse range of industries. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes, where we'll explore more advanced simulation techniques and their real-world applications in various sectors.

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In the Engineering Futures podcast series, you'll have the opportunity to meet the experts leading the charge at Element Digital Engineering, a global team excelling in engineering, applied mathematics, and technical software.

Episode #3 hosts

Tom Elson

Tom Elson is a Principal Engineer at Element Digital Engineering specializing in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). With a master’s in aerospace engineering and a Ph.D. in Jet Engine Aerodynamics, Tom has worked across industries like oil and gas and consumer products, including a role at Dyson. He uses computational analysis to fast-track design and enhance processes. Now in consultancy, Tom relishes solving diverse complex problems through CFD and Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

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Harvey Stubbs

Harvey Stubbs is a Senior Engineer at Element Digital Engineering with a master’s in mechanical engineering and industry experience in Steelworks. Harvey specializes in structural modelling, particularly Finite Element Analysis (FEA), as well as thermal modelling. Over the last three years, he has applied his expertise across sectors such as medical, power, and gas, contributing to Element’s diverse project portfolio.

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Hannah Walker

Hannah Walker is an Engineer at Element Digital Engineering who has been part of the team since 2022. Holding a master’s degree in engineering mathematics, her academic background offers a broad spectrum of engineering disciplines. Still exploring her specific field of interest, Hannah finds the diversity of consultancy work particularly engaging. She has a penchant for data science and is also developing a keen interest in fluid dynamics.

Connect with Hannah on LinkedIn

Digital Engineering podcast series

In our Engineering Futures series, this engineering podcast goes beyond the challenges of hydrogen use. We bring in experts from Element Digital Engineering to shed light on ground-breaking projects and demonstrate the value of digital engineering in providing insight, understanding and answers to complex engineering and technology challenges. 

Topics range from data-driven simulation research and development to applications of advanced simulation techniques, like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), in the food industry. Tune in to understand how we answer complex engineering questions across a diverse range of industries and technical disciplines.  

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