Computational Fluid Dynamics
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a powerful engineering tool that allows the simulation and analysis of fluid flow, heat transfer, and related physical phenomena. By numerically solving the governing equations of fluid dynamics, CFD provides detailed insight into system performance, enabling engineers to test design concepts, evaluate new ideas, and optimise solutions without the need for costly and time-consuming physical prototypes. When compared to traditional experimental methods, CFD offers a more cost-effective and timely approach, particularly in complex or hard-to-test environments.
Lote CFD Solutions
At Lote, we offer a specialised suite of in-house CFD services designed to support a range of engineering disciplines, with particular strength in fire safety, thermal comfort, and ventilation analysis. Our work supports designers, engineers, and industry partners in addressing both regulatory requirements and project-specific challenges through evidence-based simulations.
With a growing team and a broadened set of capabilities, we now provide more flexible and integrated CFD modelling solutions—from smoke movement and fire spread assessments to performance-based ventilation studies. By managing all modelling internally, we reduce reliance on third parties and maintain greater control over quality, timelines, and outcomes. Our analyses are carried out using industry-recognised software, delivering results that are both technically robust and practically applicable.
Why Lote Consulting?
We specialise in a wide array of fire engineering services tailored to meet your project's specific needs.
1. Fire Safety Engineering (FDS Modelling)
Lote CFD Solutions offers advanced fire modelling using the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), a computational tool designed for simulating low-speed, thermally driven flows typical of fires. Our team applies FDS across a wide range of residential and industrial projects to assess smoke movement, sprinkler effectiveness, ventilation design, and occupant egress conditions.
We understand the importance of project timelines and collaboration across disciplines. By using high-performance cloud computing, we run complex simulations efficiently, enabling rapid delivery of results even on large-scale projects. Our models are tailored to provide meaningful insights that support both compliance and performance-based design outcomes.
2. Evacuation Modelling (Pathfinder)
Our evacuation modelling services use Pathfinder to simulate occupant movement during emergency scenarios. This includes realistic behaviours, response to alarms, and the use of stairs, elevators, ramps, and other circulation elements. These simulations are ideal for analysing complex layouts and population dynamics across various building types.
We produce high-quality 3D animations to support design validation and assist with communication to certifiers, stakeholders, and end users. From initial entry to final exit, our models capture full evacuation sequences and provide reliable input for fire engineering strategies and regulatory submissions.
3. General CFD Services (ANSYS-Based Modelling)
Beyond fire applications, Lote provides a wide range of general CFD modelling services using ANSYS to address airflow, thermal performance, and ventilation system design. These services are used in tunnels, large enclosures, and multi-storey buildings to analyse fluid flow, smoke spread, temperature distribution, and system efficiency.
Our in-house expertise allows us to handle every stage of CFD modelling without outsourcing, ensuring greater control over timelines, quality, and outcomes. Each analysis is tailored to the specific conditions of the project, supporting safe, efficient, and compliant design solutions grounded in physical realism.
4. Energy Storage Safety Modelling (FLACS-CFD & ANSYS)
We offer specialised CFD modelling for energy storage systems, focusing on high-risk scenarios such as toxic gas release, explosion events, and thermal radiation impacts. Using FLACS-CFD and ANSYS, we simulate off-gassing from lithium-ion batteries (e.g. hydrogen fluoride), gas dispersion, and flammable cloud ignition.
Our work informs critical design decisions, including ventilation layouts, barrier placement, and explosion venting strategies, helping reduce risks and support compliance. This service is particularly valuable for battery energy storage systems (BESS) and large industrial sites where safety assurance is essential.
5. Bushfire Tenability Analysis (ANSYS & PyroSim)
Lote now provides advanced CFD simulations to assess tenability inside buildings exposed to bushfire conditions. In line with Clause 9 of BCA Specification 43, we evaluate internal temperature, visibility, and air quality using ANSYS and PyroSim to determine occupant survivability during external fire events.
Our modelling helps identify risk areas, inform the design of passive protection measures, and ensure buildings meet regulatory performance requirements in bushfire-prone zones. This service supports safer, more resilient designs backed by data-driven insight into real-world bushfire conditions.
Featured Articles and Resources
Find out more about CFD modelling and its applications in fire safety and engineering. Our articles provide insights into the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies in CFD, helping you stay informed about this critical aspect of fire safety engineering.
Optimise airflow and safety with precision CFD modelling tailored to your design needs.
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