This course introduces the open source CFD toolbox, 
OpenFOAM. It provides a foundation for all aspects of 
OpenFOAM, from running cases to programming, so is useful 
to both new users and existing users wishing to broaden 
their basic knowledge of OpenFOAM.

Topics Covered
•	The OpenFOAM software distribution
•	Background in the use of Linux/UNIX
•	OpenFOAM applications
•	Basic meshing
•	Field initialisation and boundary conditions
•	Selecting models and setting parameters
•	Solution monitoring and control
•	Mesh conversion (example from Ansys)
•	Boundary conditions
•	Reynolds-averaged simulation for turbulence
•	Post-processing tools and visualisation
•	Mesh manipulation
•	Mapping fields
•	Running in parallel
•	Creating animations
•	Introduction to C++ and its use in OpenFOAM
•	Code structure and compilation
•	Code walk through for a simple utility
•	The important classes in OpenFOAM
•	The finite volume method and PISO/SIMPLE/PIMPLE 
algorithms
•	Programming OpenFOAM solvers
•	Introduction to programming boundary conditions

Course details
OpenFOAM USB stick
Participants undertake exercises in simulating cases and 
programming in OpenFOAM on desktop PCs running a live 
OpenFOAM/Linux installation provided on a USB memory 
stick. Participants may alternatively boot this live 
installation of OpenFOAM on their personal laptops if they 
wish — see “requirements for bootable USB stick” for 
further details. Participants keep the USB memory stick at 
the end of the course.

Course materials
A high-quality, A5-sized (80-100 page) wire-bound manual 
is provided with each course that participants can use 
during the course and can later work through in their own 
time.

Language
The language used in all OpenFOAM training courses is 
English.

Course times
The course is 2 days in duration and usually runs from 
09.00 to 17.30 (local time) each day.

Target audience
The Foundation course is suitable for new users and 
existing users seeking to broaden their basic knowledge, 
particularly in programming — see “information on course 
suitability” for further details.

Prerequisites
No prior knowledge of OpenFOAM, C++ or Linux is required 
but a basic knowledge of Linux and C++ is beneficial.