Coating processes typically involve complex fluid rheology and deforming free surfaces. Simulation and analysis of these processes requires sophisticated flow modeling software, optimized for these types of problems. Fluent CFD software has proven capabilities in the analysis of a wide variety of coating processes, including slot, slide, curtain, blade, forward and reverse roll and the coating of wire, cable and optical fiber.

Simulation results showing the flow streamlines in a two-layer slot coater. The operating conditions can be quickly changed to map out the stable operating window.

Modeling of cable coating. On the left: velocity distribution; on the right: coating free surface and thickness distribution.

Free surfaces and velocity vectors predicted for a deformable blade coating process. Modeling results also include pressure field, deflection of the blade, and Von Mises stress distribution in the blade.