PowerFLOW 2026: Next-Generation High-Fidelity CFD Simulation Software

PowerFLOW 2024 is the latest release of Dassault Systèmes’ industry-leading computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. Utilizing a inherently transient Lattice Boltzmann-based solver, it empowers engineers to simulate real-world fluid flow, aerodynamics, aeroacoustics, and thermal management with unparalleled accuracy and without the complexities of traditional mesh generation.

This overview explores the key features of PowerFLOW 2024, demonstrating how it drives innovation and reduces development risk for automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment industries.

1. Unmatched Solver Technology & Physical Modeling

PowerFLOW 2024 is built on a robust foundation that automatically captures complex flow physics.

  • Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM): Simulate inherently transient flows, from low-speed aerodynamics to highly turbulent and separated flows, with exceptional accuracy.

  • Very Large Eddy Simulation (VLES): Resolve a broad range of turbulent scales for highly predictive aerodynamics and aeroacoustics results.

  • Advanced Thermal Management: Model conjugate heat transfer (CHT) for complex systems cooling, including electronics thermal management and underhood flows.

  • Multiphase & Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI): Handle challenging applications like water management, dirt accumulation, and flexible body dynamics.

2. Streamlined Workflow & Enhanced Usability

This release focuses on accelerating the entire simulation lifecycle, from geometry to insight.

  • Automated Geometry Handling: Robust tools for quickly importing and preparing complex CAD geometries, with automated surface tolerance resolution and leak detection.

  • Intelligent Volume Preparation: The Cartesian-based approach with exempt modeling eliminates the time-consuming body-fitted mesh generation required by traditional CFD.

  • Seamless 3DEXPERIENCE Integration: For users on the platform, enjoy native data management, process orchestration, and collaboration within a unified environment.

3. Powerful Design Exploration & Optimization

Go beyond single-point analysis to explore vast design spaces and make data-driven decisions.

  • Integrated DOE & Optimization: Easily set up Design of Experiments (DOE) and optimization studies to automatically explore design variations and meet performance targets.

  • Fast Turnaround Time: The solver’s scalability and efficient workflow enable the simulation of hundreds of design variants in the time it takes for traditional CFD to handle a few.

  • Digital Twin Capability: Create high-fidelity digital twins of products to predict performance in real-world operating conditions.

4. High-Fidelity Aeroacoustics Simulation

PowerFLOW 2024 provides industry-unique capabilities for accurately predicting noise.

  • Direct Noise Prediction: Calculate aerodynamic noise directly from the flow field without empirical models, enabling the design of quieter products.

  • Acoustic Propagation: Use integrated techniques like the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) solver to predict far-field noise from simulated near-field flows.

  • Component Contribution Analysis: Identify and rank the contribution of different parts (e.g., side mirrors, tires) to the overall noise signature.

5. Scalable High-Performance Computing (HPC)

Leverage modern computing infrastructure to solve the most challenging problems faster.

  • Massive Parallel Scalability: Run simulations efficiently on thousands of CPU cores, drastically reducing time-to-results for large-scale models.

  • Cloud & On-Premise Deployment: Flexible deployment options to fit your organization’s computational strategy, including support for major cloud providers.