Computers have been used to solve fluid flow problems for many years. Numerous programs have been written to solve either specific problems, or specific classes of problems. From the mid-1970s, the complex mathematics required to generalize the algorithms began to be understood, and general purpose CFD solvers were developed. These began to appear in the early 1980s and required what were then very powerful computers, as well as an in-depth knowledge of fluid dynamics, and large amounts of time to set up simulations. Consequently, CFD was a tool used almost exclusively in research.

Recent advances in computing power, together with powerful graphics and interactive 3D manipulation of models, have made the process of creating a CFD model and analyzing results much less labor intensive, reducing time and, hence, cost. Advanced solvers contain algorithms that enable robust solutions of the flow field in a reasonable time.

As a result of these factors, Computational Fluid Dynamics is now an established industrial design tool, helping to reduce design time scales and improve processes throughout the engineering world. CFD provides a cost-effective and accurate alternative to scale model testing, with variations on the simulation being performed quickly, offering obvious advantages.