Basic OpenFOAM Programming
One of the greatest strengths of open-source software is its adaptability, made possible through access to the source code. This flexibility allows users to modify, expand, and customize the software to meet specific needs, making OpenFOAM® one of the most popular tools for developing new Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) functionalities. Whether you're an experienced programmer or just starting, the ability to access and work with OpenFOAM's source code opens up endless possibilities for learning, innovation, and solving unique problems.
To help you explore OpenFOAM® programming, we've created a series of tutorials that serve as complementary materials for the online lecture "Basic OpenFOAM Programming." This lecture series is carefully designed to guide you step by step through the core principles of working with OpenFOAM® code. By following these tutorials, you'll gain practical experience in understanding how OpenFOAM® works under the hood and learn how to modify and extend its capabilities to suit your projects.
The tutorials are based on OpenFOAM-12, the latest version at the time of writing, providing you with up-to-date insights into its features and structure. However, the skills and knowledge you’ll gain from these tutorials are not limited to a single version—they are broadly applicable to other OpenFOAM® versions, ensuring that you can apply what you learn to different setups and future releases. Whether you're using OpenFOAM® for academic research, industrial projects, or personal development, these resources are here to help you get started and grow your expertise.
Level: Beginner
Prerequisites: Basic to intermediate knowledge of Linux, OpenFOAM, and C++
Tutorial 1
Adding a New Material Model to OpenFOAM
Steps:
- Create a new viscosity library
- Program and compile the viscosity model
- Integrate the library into a simulation
OpenFOAM Version: 12
Solver: foamRun
Tutorial case: pitzDaily
Tutorial 2
Adding a New Boundary Condition to OpenFOAM
Steps:
- Create a new boundary condition
- Program and compile the boundary condition
- Integrate the library into a simulation
OpenFOAM Version: 12
Solver: foamRun
Tutorial case: pitzDaily
Tutorial 3
Modifying an OpenFOAM solver by adding a tracer equation
Steps:
- Creating the required fields and access to the dictionaries
- Implementing scalar transport equation and compiling
- Testing it on the provided tutorial
OpenFOAM Version: 12
Solver: myFoamRun
Tutorial case: pitzDaily
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