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Getting Started with Tecplot 360 – CONVERGE Dataset


Watch this training on getting started with Tecplot 360 – CONVERGE dataset (from Convergent Science). After an introduction, we review the Tecplot 360 graphical user interface, then show you basic capabilities of visualizing your results.

This Training Covers:

  • Exploring CONVERGE data
  • Parcels
  • Isosurfaces, Slices, Streamtraces
  • Data Extraction
  • Integration
  • Export

Q&A from the Training

Can you output data on a slice to a text or CSV file for further analysis outside of Tecplot?

Yes. Slices are what we call derived objects, and to write them out you first need to Extract them to a Zone.  Once you have the Slice extracted to a Zone you can export the zone to a Tecplot ASCII file format. Use the main menu file > Export > Write Data, then select Tecplot ASCII Data Writer (current) (*.dat).

You can export to CSV format using Tools > Write data as formatted text.  But note that Cell-Centered data will have to be converted to node located before you can write that data to CSV.

These are two ways of exporting data. We also have a Python API, PyTecplot, that allows you direct access to the data. 

How can you visualize the 2D plane view?

Tecplot 360 has 2D contour plotting. If you extract that slice to a zone, you can view a 2D representation. Then you can look at, say, a “top down”  view of the slice. From the top of the Plot sidebar, choose 2D Cartesian.

How do you calculate vorticity contour from the velocity vectors?

You can calculate vorticity using the Analyze > Calculate variables tool. Choose “Select” and you will see many predefined calculations. There are several Vorticity calculations. Before doing your calculation, make sure that you have provided the appropriate information about your properties and variables:

  • Fluid properties, Analyze > Fluid Properties
  • Reference variables, Analyze > Reference variables
  • Field variables in Analyze > Field properties.  

The Analyze > Calculate variables tool allows you to define a new variable to plot like you would any other variable in your dataset. The Calculate on Demand toggle tells Tecplot 360 to only calculate that variable when it is needed. If you have a large data set with lots of time steps, and the toggle is checked, Tecplot will calculate the variable only for the time step you are on, and only when it’s needed. This can save you a lot of time!

Can Tecplot 360 read CONVERGE post*.h5 files directly?

If you use the CONVERGE solver, Tecplot 360 can read the CONVERGE post*.h5 files directly. This allows you to skip the post_convert step, saving you time and disk space.

Where can we get the converge dataset that is being used in this training?

You can find the data in our Getting Started bundle.

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