COMSOL:

Challenge X
Vaasavi Sundar
MAE 598
Numerical Architecture
● COMSOL is a finite element analysis (FEA) modeling program
○ Includes a variety of packages (CFD, PDE, Batteries and Fuel Cells, Multidynamics
modules) [1]

● CFD Specific Information [2]

○ Navier-Stokes Equations and Spalart-Allmaras used to model turbulent flow
○ Users can manipulate variables in the equations and include equations from other interfaces
○ Other available tools include:
■ hybrid meshes, automatic boundary layer meshing, and the ability to adapt mesh density
○ CFD Module can make use of various solvers (linear, nonlinear, time dependent, parametric)
○ Users can apply different orders within the same simulation
Strengths and Weaknesses (Compared to ANSYS)
Strengths: [3]

● Offers more control for the user (can input specific equations)
○ ANSYS uses a preprocessor
● Offers a variety of modules for more multiphysics problems
○ Some unique modules include: the MEMs module, acoustics module, corrosion
module
○ ANSYS offers multiphysics simulations available for applications in electronics cooling,
thermal FSI, and fluid structure interactions
● Users can define the boundaries through PDEs for any problem
● COMSOL users can incorporate other programming languages (MATLAB, JAVA) for a
User-Defined Function (UDF)
○ ANSYS (only offers UDF through C)
Strengths and Weaknesses (Compared to ANSYS)
Weaknesses: [3]

● ANSYS is widely renowned (and preferred) industry standard FEA tool

○ For many engineers, ANSYS is the preferred software because there are pre-set
settings for certain situations
○ ANSYS is considered to have a more “robust” solver
● Finite Element Method
○ ANSYS offers a Finite Volume Method
● ANSYS Fluent is considered a better option for turbulent models
○ Turbulent models are considered more advanced than those available through
COMSOL
○ Simulations with high Re numbers are more difficult to converge on COMSOL
Availability, Cost, and Key Advantages
● COMSOL Multiphysics [4]
○ Single-use license: $ 1,695
○ CFD Module: $ 1,695
● COMSOL also offers an “Academic License” for a class of 300 students [4]
■ COMSOL Multiphysics License available at $ 3,995
■ CFD Module: $ 2,995
● At least 1 GB memory, but 4 GB or more is recommended
○ 1-5 GB of disk space (depends on licensed products and installation options
○ Can be run on Mac, Linux, and Windows
● Key Advantages: [3]
○ Availability of many multi-physics modules that aren’t offered through ANSYS Fluent
○ User-controlled method of modeling (through PDE inputs)
○ The cost of a COMSOL license is much less than that of an ANSYS license
Lessons Learned and References
● From the research, it appears that while COMSOL offers more flexibility,
this would be a more appropriate source for those who are pursuing
research or for those who would prefer a mathematical approach. ANSYS
is a more appropriate choice for students who are looking to go into
industry, as that software is used predominantly in the industry.

References:
● [1] https://www.comsol.com/products
● [2] https://www.comsol.com/cfd-module
● [3]http://www.cfd-online.com/
● [4] http://collaborate.bu.edu/engit/Comsol?action=AttachFile&do=get&target=comsol-pricelist.pdf