Development of accessible multiphysics software for copper cross-section optimization
Copper is a critical element for the energy and digital transition, thanks to its ideal electrical conductivity. It can be found everywhere:
- In electricity generation (nuclear power plants, solar power, etc.);
- In the power supply (substations, switchboards, switches, etc.)
- In vehicle traction modules (connections, busbars).
However, demand is set to double over the next 5 years, forcing us to rethink our consumption of this metal.
How do you design high-performance, long-lasting busbars using as little copper as possible?
The project
In conjunction with the University of Grenoble-Alpes (UGA), CNRS, G2LAB and Grenoble-INP, Gindre has launched a CIFRE thesis to answer this question. The state of the art consists of :
- A old abacuses from standards that oversize copper cross-sections;
- or complex simulation software.
The latter are difficult to learn, and are usually intended for technical experts. Last but not least, these programs require several hours or even days of computation.
The solution
Depending on electrical parameters (DC/AC current, amperage, etc.) and material properties, the software solves the various physics equations: thermal equations (conduction, convection, radiation), electro-mechanical equations. The physical parameters are coupled as closely as possible to take into account the various effects and to get as close as possible to reality.
Our customers benefit in many ways:
- Use the right amount of copper: up to 50% savings
- A few seconds' calculation instead of several hours: time saved when responding to invitations to tender
- A simple approach to multiphysics calculations: accessible to as many engineering profiles as possible: mechanical/electrical/thermal engineer
- No need for an external server: up to 10 times less expensive than commercial software
