From research to reality: How IMI drives innovation through multiphysics simulation at COMSOL 2024

The COMSOL Conference 2024, held in Florence, Italy, brought together engineers and researchers to explore the role of multiphysics simulation in driving innovation across industries.

Hosted at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, the event provided a unique platform for professionals to connect, share insights, and discuss the role of modeling and simulation in driving innovation across various industries.

The conference featured a rich program of keynote talks, poster sessions, and presentations from industry leaders and invited speakers. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from experts, explore cutting-edge research, and enhance their multiphysics modeling skills. The emphasis on collaboration fostered an environment where participants could exchange ideas and ask questions, thereby enriching the collective knowledge within the simulation community.

IMI’s contribution: Pioneering innovation through simulation One of the standout presentations came from Marco Mastrovito, Head of Research & Development, Europe for Process Automation at IMI. His talk, titled “Sustain on-demand product innovation and process development in an operation-oriented environment,” outlined IMI’s approach to innovation through its Growth Hub philosophy. Marco detailed the critical role of research and development at IMI, highlighting how the company evaluates feasibility and application fit, designs tests, and assesses concepts to identify cost-effective manufacturing routes.

COMSOL in action: EroSolve MMT solution A significant focus of Marco’s presentation was on how COMSOL Multiphysics® was utilised in the development of IMI’s EroSolve Metamorphic Trim (MMT) solution. This innovative valve technology addresses the challenges faced in harsh operational environments, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The EroSolve MMT employs a self-cleaning design that combines multistage labyrinth and cascade technologies to effectively manage and reduce clogging from solid particles and debris.

The unique design of the EroSolve MMT promotes efficient flow management while minimising the risk of erosion and cavitation – two common issues in demanding applications. By allowing solid contaminants to pass through without obstruction, the MMT enhances operational reliability and reduces maintenance costs. Real-world applications, such as its deployment in a North Sea oil and gas facility, have demonstrated the valve’s effectiveness in resolving clogging issues and minimising downtime, ultimately leading to significant operational cost savings.

Beyond EroSolve: Expanding capabilities with VLB3 valve In addition to the EroSolve MMT, Marco discussed how COMSOL was pivotal in the development of steam desuperheating and turbine bypass valves, specifically the VLB3, IMI’s Third Generation Steam Conditioning Valve. He outlined how IMI developed an Excel tool to expedite computational processes, providing a more efficient alternative to traditional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations. The VLB3 valve, optimised for high cycling Combined Cycle Power Plants (CCPPs), meets the increasing demands of gas-fired power plants as they adapt to a fluctuating energy landscape that includes a higher proportion of renewable sources.