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How Simcenter Amesim Is Transforming Thermal Management in the Automotive Industry

The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation. Electrification, stricter emission regulations, and growing demands for comfort and performance bring new challenges in thermal management. How can you ensure optimal component temperatures, reduce energy consumption, and shorten development time? The answer is Simcenter Amesim from Siemens.

Why Is Thermal Management Critical?

Modern vehicles are complex systems where every component—from the battery to the engine to the HVAC—requires precise temperature control. Incorrect temperatures mean lower efficiency, higher emissions, and shorter lifespan.
 

How Simcenter Amesim Helps

Simcenter Amesim is an integrated system simulation platform that enables you to:

• Virtually assess and optimize mechatronic system performance.
• Model and simulate scenarios from early design to validation.
• Use extensive multi-physics component libraries.
• Test control strategies and optimize using a digital twin.
  
  

Real-World Examples

Hatz Diesel: Faster Engine Design

Hatz Diesel used Simcenter Amesim to optimize cooling circuits for new water-cooled engines. They were able to:

• Balance cooling circuit parameters before building a prototype.
• Accelerate design cycles and improve efficiency.
• Tailor engines to specific customer needs.
  
  

Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle: Rankine Cycle and Fuel Savings

Dongfeng leveraged Simcenter Amesim to develop exhaust heat recovery technology using the Rankine cycle. This allowed them to:

• Optimize engine cooling control strategies.
• Analyze combustion, cooling, and lubrication subsystems.
• Validate Rankine cycle feasibility before the first prototype.
  
  

PSA Peugeot Citroën: Higher Reliability and Lower Costs

PSA used Simcenter Amesim for thermal simulations of powertrains under various driving conditions. Results included:

• Improved reliability and efficiency of powertrain components.
• Reduced component damage through protection strategies.
• Significant reduction in time-to-market by minimizing physical tests.
  
  

Conclusion

Thermal management is now a key success factor in the automotive industry. Simcenter Amesim provides the tools engineers need to tackle these challenges with confidence and efficiency.