The CFD modeling process for a cyclone must be carefully done because of the complex flow field formed. From the geometry construction, through the mesh generation, and finally, the physical model selection, all these processes need a good understanding of the phenomenon and know-how to build an accurate model that can be used for prediction purposes precisely.

Bioprocessing or pharmaceutical process development usually starts with using a benchtop reactor. Once the processing team is convinced that the process is adequate and feasible, the process is passed to a pilot-sized reactor, where the engineers look for optimal operating conditions. This is the most challenging part: to replicate the pilot's optimal operating conditions to a commercial-sized reactor. This process is called scale-up. It is crucial in the development of bioprocesses, pharmaceutical processes, and food processes

Using CFD is possible to completely characterize the flow behavior in both simple and complex geometries. It is also possible to determine the influence that the flow behavior has over the bioreactor´s performance.