Why Model‑Based System Simulation (Simcenter Amesim) Beats Spreadsheet Sizing

Simcenter Amesim vs Spreadsheets

Discover four reasons Simcenter Amesim outperforms spreadsheets for hydraulic, pneumatic and thermal system design.


Spreadsheets hide assumptions and miss dynamic interactions; the first prototype often reveals the truth—at 10× the cost. Simcenter Amesim exposes system behaviour before metal‑cut.


Pain Points with Spreadsheet Sizing

  • Static: Time‑based effects like transient pressure spikes remain invisible.

  • Opaque: Formulas buried in cells make design reviews painful.

  • Error‑prone: Copy‑paste mistakes propagate unnoticed.

  • Limited reuse: Each new project spawns yet another workbook.


Four Ways Model‑Based Simulation Wins

  1. Multi‑physics libraries – Drag‑and‑drop hydraulic pumps, solenoid valves and thermal exchangers with validated correlations.

  2. Transient analysis – Capture start‑up surges, cavitation risk and heat‑soak cycles.

  3. Automated design exploration – DoE and optimisation find minimal‑mass components while meeting performance.

  4. Digital continuity – One‑click export to Simcenter 3D or Teamcenter for traceable requirements.


Mini‑Case: Electric Excavator Cooling Loop

Replacing a spreadsheet with Amesim shaved 20 kg off radiator mass, cut battery temp overshoot by 6 °C and eliminated a $40k physical test rig.


How ProductSpace Helps

  • Simulation jump‑start – Library customisation and training sprint.

  • Model validation package – Correlate against test bench data.

  • Integration – Embed Amesim results into PLM workflows.


Register for our upcoming webinar to see a live demo of Amesim reducing prototype loops.