Wave Tutorial - Ricardo

Abstract Ricardo Wave is an industry-leading software package for one-dimensional (1D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of internal combustion engines and related positive displacement flow systems. This tutorial provides a structured introduction to the fundamental principles, workflow, and key applications of Ricardo Wave. It is intended for graduate students, powertrain engineers, and researchers new to 1D gas dynamics simulation. 1. Introduction to 1D Gas Dynamics Unlike 3D CFD, which resolves complex turbulent flow fields in detail, 1D gas dynamics models the conservation of mass, momentum, and energy along the length of ducts and components. Ricardo Wave uses the method of characteristics (MOC) with a two-step Lax–Wendroff finite difference scheme to solve the Euler equations. This approach captures pressure wave propagation, reflection, and interference – critical for predicting engine breathing, scavenging, and boosting.