Introduction
This guide walks you through creating your first network in FluidFlow from a blank workspace to a working hydraulic model. You'll learn how to place components, connect them, set basic properties, and run calculations. The steps are taken directly from this training video.
Main Content
Step 1 – Open a New Workspace
Launch FluidFlow to open a new flowsheet.
The blank Flowsheet is where you'll design your network.
Step 2 – Add Components
Use the Component Palette to select and place key components.
Each hydraulic model should contain these basic parts:
Inlet Boundary
Pipes and Nodes
Outlet Boundary
Drag components from the palette into the flowsheet.
Step 3 – Connect the Network
Select the appropriate pipe material from the Pipes section in the component palette.
Connect nodes using the click-drag-click method.
FluidFlow automatically adds appropriate components (like tees and elbows) as you connect pipes, eliminating the need to manually place these elements.
Step 4 – Define Properties
Click a component and edit its properties using the Input Editor.
Assign the relevant information for each node. For example:
For boundary conditions: set pressures or flows, fluid type, and fluid temperature
For pipes: specify length, size, friction loss model, and surface roughness
For other nodes: set elevation and other required parameters
Step 5 – Run the Calculation
Click the Calculate button.
Upon completion, a notification appears at the bottom of the screen.
Flow directional arrows indicate flow paths.
Watch for red markers, which highlight warnings or errors that need attention.
Step 6 – Review the Results
Use the Results tab in the Data Palette to view calculation results for each element.
Alternatively, some results may also be displayed directly on the flowsheet.
View Pump Curve or System Curve for analysis under the Chart tab of the Data Palette.
Best Practices
Always start with boundary conditions before adding other components.
Keep your initial model simple; add complexity after successful runs.
Use multi-select to efficiently apply common properties across similar components.
Verify connections visually—unconnected nodes won't calculate properly.
Save your work regularly, especially before major edits.
When using directional components, always verify flow directions before calculation.
Address warning indicators promptly after calculation.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can create your first working network in FluidFlow quickly and confidently, going from a blank workspace to a calculated model with results ready for review.
Learning to build networks from scratch in FluidFlow gives you the foundation for more complex designs and ensures accurate, efficient hydraulic modeling from day one.