30-Second Summary
What is Altair FlightStream™?
A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software optimised for external aerodynamic analysis using advanced surface-based simulations.
Who is it for?
Engineers working in aerospace, defence, and automotive industries are looking to simulate complex flow behaviour with high accuracy and speed.
Key Features
Combines vortex lattice, surface vorticity, and boundary layer solvers; seamlessly integrates with Altair HyperWorks and other design tools.
Why it’s different:
Uses surface-based flow solvers instead of volume meshes, drastically reducing simulation time without compromising accuracy.
Real-world impact
Used in NASA research and by leading aerospace manufacturers for faster design iterations and better performance predictions.
What is Altair FlightStream™?
Altair FlightStream™ is a revolutionary computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tool that enables engineers to simulate and analyse external aerodynamic flow quickly … in seconds and accurately, within few % of RANS code results. Unlike traditional CFD methods that require complex volume meshing, FlightStream uses a surface-based approach, making it significantly faster while still delivering highly reliable results.
It’s ideal for analysing fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, missiles and propulsion-airframe interactions. It excels when speed and precision are mission-critical.
Altair FlightStream™ in South Africa: Trusted by Aerospace, Defence & Drone Engineers
Altair FlightStream™ is gaining traction in South Africa’s aerospace and defence sectors, particularly among engineers working on UAVs (drones), VTOLs, and commercial aircraft. With its fast simulation times, it’s ideal for companies that need to validate designs quickly, whether it’s for military-grade drone development, aerodynamic efficiency improvements, or academic research.
South African engineers in Cape Town and Pretoria use FlightStream to:
- Simulate aerodynamic performance of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft
- Speed up CFD analysis for conceptual drone designs
- Reduce simulation costs for small R&D teams
If you’re looking for a cost-effective CFD tool in South Africa, FlightStream offers a compelling advantage.
How FlightStream™ Works: Surface-Based Solving Explained
Traditional CFD vs. FlightStream™
In traditional CFD, engineers need to generate volume meshes, a time-consuming task that often requires supercomputing resources. In contrast, Altair FlightStream™ eliminates that bottleneck with surface-based solvers. These solvers simulate:
- External aerodynamic flow
- Vortex interactions
- Boundary layer effects
Rotor and propeller interactions
Key Features and Capabilities
- Rapid Simulation Time
FlightStream’s surface-based solver architecture allows for quick iterations, enabling engineers to evaluate multiple design variations in a fraction of the time required by traditional CFD.
- Rotorcraft and Propeller Modelling
With its actuator disk modelling capability, engineers can analyse the influence of rotors and propellers on nearby surfaces, essential for VTOL and UAVs.
- Thermal and Multi-Physics Extensions
FlightStream doesn’t just simulate aerodynamics. Its ability to interface with thermal solvers allows for multi-disciplinary simulations, including aero-heating and conjugate heat transfer.
- Validation with NASA and Industry Use Cases
FlightStream has been validated through multiple NASA case studies, making it a trusted solution for both commercial and defence aerospace applications.
Benefits of Using Altair FlightStream™
- Faster Development Cycles: Skip lengthy mesh generation and jump straight to results
- Increased Design Confidence: Backed by validation from NASA and industry leaders
- Cost-Efficiency: Less compute time = lower simulation costs
- Scalable Use: From small UAVs to full-scale commercial aircraft
- Ideal for Conceptual and Preliminary Design Phases
Where to Get Altair FlightStream™ in South Africa
Altair FlightStream™ is available through authorised resellers like Simutron, who specialise in engineering simulation software. Whether you’re in aerospace, defence, or automotive industries, Simutron can assist with:
- Local support and training
- Custom licensing options
- Integration with existing CAD and simulation workflows
For FlightStream demo requests, pricing in ZAR, or technical consultations, contact Simutron today.
Who Should Use Altair FlightStream™?
FlightStream is designed for aerospace engineers or R&D departments focused on aerodynamics. Whether you’re designing a high-performance drone or an energy-efficient aircraft, this tool gives you a strategic edge in early-stage simulation.
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer in Aerodynamic Simulation
Altair FlightStream™ marks a significant step forward in CFD technology by offering speed, accuracy, and efficiency, without the complexity of traditional methods. Its surface-based approach doesn’t just simplify simulation; it empowers engineers to innovate faster and smarter.
For teams under pressure to deliver better-performing, lighter, and more efficient designs, FlightStream is more than a simulation tool—it’s a competitive advantage.
