Evaluate how geometries and terrain affect cloud dispersion and fires

KFX harnesses the power of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to precisely model dispersion and fires in various scenarios. 

Featuring computer-aided design (CAD) and topography import capabilities, KFX automatically converts geometries for seamless integration with the calculation models, ensuring an efficient and accurate representation of the impact of 3D geometries on the CFD simulations.

KFX-Dispersion of dense gas taking into account terrain and topography
Dispersion of dense gas taking into account terrain and topography

Assess the impact of fire mitigation measures and optimize passive fire protection (PFP)

KFX provides comprehensive simulations of water-based fire mitigation techniques, including deluge, monitors, mist and water curtains, in complex systems and congested areas while accounting for weather effects. 

Additionally, data from KFX can be used as input to USFOS, a simulation software dedicated to analyzing structural response to accidental loads resulting from fires and explosion.

KFX-Heat flux to piping equipment with deluge system
Heat flux to piping equipment with deluge system

Optimize layout and facility siting

Advanced dispersion and fire modelling using KFX can predict dispersion cloud behavior, helping to assess exposure to toxicity (for a toxic gas accidental release) or radiation (for a flammable gas accidental release) in open or enclosed areas. 

KFX simulates ventilation, whether natural or forced, and can therefore help with layout optimization.

KFX-Toxic cloud dispersion at an onshore facility
Toxic cloud dispersion at an onshore facility

Support for a safe energy transition

KFX has been continuously developed for over 40 years through joint industry projects (JIPs), including to support transport and storage of hydrogen and ammonia and for carbon capture and storage (CCS). 

Learn more about the three ongoing CFD simulation software JIPs: hydrogenammonia and carbon dioxide (CO2)

KFX-Two-phase CO2 release
Two-phase CO2 release

from 6806 EUR per month

from 6806 EUR per month

Contact us

Pricing and licensing

Licensing plans available for local installation on your PC or network for single / multiple concurrent users. 

Access available from 1 month to perpetual licenses.


from 6806 EUR per month

from 6806 EUR per month

Contact us

Contact us:

see our catalogue

Choose training

Training

We offer a technical software course to help you get the most out of our product. You can join us face to face, online or book a private training course.

Contact us:

see our catalogue

Choose training

Join the organizations using KFX and EXSIM for computational fluid dynamics analysis

KFX and EXSIM - CFD simulation software for dispersion, fires and explosions - customer logos

Frequently asked questions

What are the principles and concepts behind the KFX software simulation?

Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
KFX utilises a finite volume technique to solve the Navier Stokes equations, incorporating three-dimensional (3D) and transient simulations. KFX utilises the porosity technique, enabling the resolution of objects smaller than the grid cells and making the code highly efficient. Moreover, the Eddy Dissipation Concept (EDC) serves as the foundation for combustion modelling in KFX.

How does KFX/EXSIM differentiate its software capabilities from other CFD software?

Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer

KFX/EXSIM is specifically developed for safety-related applications, addressing scenarios such as gas dispersion, fires, explosions, and other industrial challenges. Its features include the porosity technique, Lagrangian model for droplet releases, the ability to handle multiple simultaneous releases in a single model, and seamless integration with Finite Element software for structural response analysis. 

Extensive usage and testing in numerous industry studies, both by DNV and external customers, have established KFX as a robust and stable simulator. Furthermore, the software has been developed in close collaboration with industry partners to best understand and address industrial needs efficiently and accurately. Notably, ongoing advancements include an advanced liquid CO2 release model that accounts for complex thermodynamics, two-phase releases, dry-ice formation and deposition, as well as obstacles, terrain, and wind conditions.

What are the unique selling points of KFX/EXSIM?

Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer
Answer

The competence behind KFX/EXSIM is the result of four decades of focused research, continuous development of fire simulation software, and consultancy work within turbulent flow and combustion, with funding from industry and the Research Council of Norway. Widely used in the industry, KFX/EXSIM is a leading CFD simulator for dispersion, fire, and explosion simulations. Extensive validation has been conducted, ensuring accurate results, and ongoing validation is based on experiments carried out in DNV Spadedam and with industry partners. KFX includes advanced Lagrangian models for fire mitigation and extinction using various water systems. It is also seamlessly interfaced with the KFX Usfos finite element structure response code, enabling non-linear dynamic structural response analysis. Additionally, KFX offers powerful CAD and topography import capabilities, allowing for automatic conversion of CAD geometries and easy handling of electronic maps. DNV's collaboration with industry partners on Joint Industry Projects (JIPs) focused on hydrogen, ammonia, and CO2 safety further enhances the software, with research results from these projects being integrated into KFX.

Product information

Consequence and QRA webinars

Watch our software webinars.

Whitepaper

Access your copy of our Modelling and Simulation of Hydrogen Jet Fires whitepaper.

Training

Find a course that suits your needs.

Knowledge and support

Download latest versions, learn what's new and search the help library.

Related products

EXSIM

Explosion simulation software

USFOS

Passive fire protection offshore

Phast

Control your hazards by modelling discharge, dispersion, fires explosions and toxic effects

Safeti

Make cost-effective decisions and manage risk throughout the asset lifecycle

What can KFX do for your company?

Contact us