Best for
CFD case setup
Use the table to recall common solvers, meshing steps, dictionary files, and post-processing commands.
CFD software guide
OpenFOAM Commands Reference
Search OpenFOAM solvers, utilities, boundary condition terms, mesh tools, and post-processing commands used in CFD case workflows.
CFD command lookup
Find OpenFOAM solvers and utilities
Filter by solver, mesh task, dictionary, boundary condition, post-processing command, or CFD workflow.
Watch out
Case dictionaries control behavior
Solver choice, turbulence model, boundary conditions, schemes, and mesh quality must match the physics.
Searchable reference
OpenFOAM solvers, utilities and case uses
| Category | Command / Function | Purpose | Example / Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesh | blockMesh | Generate a structured mesh from blockMeshDict | blockMesh |
| Mesh | snappyHexMesh | Create castellated, snapped, and layered meshes | snappyHexMesh -overwrite |
| Mesh | checkMesh | Report mesh quality and topology checks | checkMesh |
| Steady solver | simpleFoam | Solve steady incompressible turbulent flow | simpleFoam |
| Transient solver | pimpleFoam | Solve transient incompressible flow with PIMPLE | pimpleFoam |
| Multiphase | interFoam | Solve two incompressible phases with VOF | interFoam |
| Setup | controlDict | Set time step, write interval, and run controls | system/controlDict |
| Setup | fvSchemes | Set discretization schemes | system/fvSchemes |
| Setup | fvSolution | Set solvers, tolerances, and algorithms | system/fvSolution |
| Post | paraFoam | Open case in ParaView | paraFoam |
| Post | postProcess | Run function objects after or during simulation | postProcess -func forces |
| Parallel | decomposePar | Split a case for parallel execution | decomposePar |
How to use
How to use OpenFOAM command references
Search by task
task -> command -> example
Start with the task you need, then check the command, function, or shortcut syntax before using it in a real workflow.
Check context
version + module + units
Software behavior can change by version, workspace, add-in, toolbox, shell, or engineering unit system.
Verify output
example -> small test -> real work
Use the examples as starting patterns and confirm results with a small test file, sample model, or known calculation.
Document assumptions
inputs + method + result
Record the inputs, method, version, and assumptions so engineering results can be reviewed later.
Workflow notes
OpenFOAM workflow notes
Case directory
The OpenFOAM folder containing system, constant, and time directories for a simulation.
Dictionary
A structured OpenFOAM configuration file controlling mesh, solvers, schemes, fields, and output.
Patch
A named boundary region of the mesh where boundary conditions are applied.
Residual
A convergence indicator showing how much the discretized equations are changing during iteration.
FAQ
OpenFOAM Commands Reference questions
How should I use this OpenFOAM Commands Reference?
Search by command, function, shortcut, task, or example, then adapt the pattern to your drawing, model, code, spreadsheet, or simulation workflow.
Are the examples enough for production work?
Use them as quick reference patterns. Validate syntax, units, versions, and outputs before using the result in production engineering work.
Why use a searchable table?
Search is faster than scanning long documentation when you know the task but need the exact command, function, or syntax reminder.
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