Problem

In order to run an internal Flow Simulation study, there needs to be a fully enclosed volume. This article goes over how to use the Leak Tracking Tool to detect leaks. For the purposes of this article, the following model will be used.

This is a shelled body, and there are two openings. If an internal study is created from the current model, a warning message will appear saying that the model isn't watertight. The message is: "Fluid volume recognition has failed because the model currently is not watertight".

In order to create a fully enclosed volume, both openings will need to be closed off. To demonstrate the Leak Tracking tool, imagine that only one of the openings was closed off, and we aren't able to find the second opening in the model.

Solution

1. Open SOLIDWORKS and turn on the Flow Simulation Add-in from Tools > Add-ins
2. Open a Part or Assembly file with a Flow Simulation Project
3. Open the Leak Tracking tool from Tools > Flow Simulation > Tools > Leak Tracking

4. Select one internal face and one external face as inputs for the Leak Tracking Tool
5. Click "Find Connection" 
6. A line follows the model geometry to connect the two faces to show the path of fluid

7. The leaks can then be sealed, either by using the Create Lids tool or by manually adding geometry to seal it off
8. Repeat the previous steps until no leaks remain in the model

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.