Calum McLaughlin

Calum McLaughlin

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer

What is your role at TÜV SÜD National Engineering Laboratory?

I am involved in many different consultancy and research projects as a Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer. Before I joined full time, I was studying at the University of Glasgow where I received a First-Class master’s degree in mechanical engineering with aeronautics. During my time at university, I had two placements at TÜV SÜD. My first placement was a three-month internship where I focused on vortex induced vibrations of a thermowell. My second placement was a 6-month Masters placement. My topic involved comparing CFD multiphase models with results from an X-ray tomography device for stratified and slug flows. Once I completed my degree, I joined TÜV SÜD full time. 

Why did you choose to join TÜV SÜD?

It was a natural progression, having spent 9 months working with colleagues on different projects and finding more out about the business and its expertise. TÜV SÜD also supported me through my thesis, so I thought it was the best place for me to start my career.

Where do you work?

I work at home; however, I often travel into the office. 

What are your main areas of expertise?

My main expertise is single phase to multiphase flows, wet gas flows, mixing and correcting of flow meters. 

What does your role involve? What are your main responsibilities?

My role involves meeting with customers finding out about their fluid flow problems and using CFD to help find solutions. 

What most excites / interests you about your role? What have been the highlights so far? Are there any interesting projects coming up?

Working at TÜV SÜD is great for continually working on new and exciting projects. We are at the forefront of industry, developing and maintaining standards, being involved in the most recent technology advancements and R&D flow measurement projects. On top of this, being involved in the Analysis for Innovators projects allows us to be involved in developing areas of the industry. These projects are great for gaining unexpected experience and widening our exposure.

What exciting developments have you seen at TÜV SÜD since you started?

The development of data science is incredibly cool. The way the data science team are able to generate future data based on, sometimes, small data samples is impressive. Also, with how far CFD has progressed and with current advancements in computing power and new CFD models, I believe the usage of CFD is going to exponentially increase over the coming years. 

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

Coupling CFD and data science together, I believe we will see a rapid increase in digital services. With the rise of AI, I think our digital services will become more relevant to a wider audience than before and I believe TÜV SÜD are at the forefront for delivering new and exciting tools that’ll help several flow-related industries. 

What is your biggest challenge?

With industry heading towards net zero, there are frequently new standards and regulations to follow for industry and keeping up with them, alongside existing standards and regulations, can be a challenge. 

What do you see as the top perk of working for TÜV SÜD?

Having a flexible, hybrid role is very beneficial, I am very fortunate that TÜV SÜD recognises that we all have a life outside of work and sometimes it is necessary to work at home. I think TÜV SÜD is great for experiencing a lot of segments in the flow industry and being involved in so many different projects is fantastic for development.  

How have TÜV SÜD supported you?

Apart from taking me on as a student and helping me with my thesis, TÜV SÜD has allowed to me to develop in areas that I never thought I would when I started in 2020. They really do want to help you develop your professional career. 

Describe your fellow workers in five words

Energetic, confident, experienced, dependable, adaptable.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for a role similar to yours?

What’s stopping you? My experience has been great so far and I am happy with how my career has progressed. I have had exposure to a number of parts of the flow industry that I never expected when I started. Combine that with the hybrid, flexible role and support from colleagues and I really think working at TÜV SÜD is a great place for new and old.

Related Services:

CFD Modelling Consultants - Computational Fluid Dynamics Modelling | TÜV SÜD

Flow Measurement Training Courses