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

05.09.25 11:46 AM - By viveka

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.

viveka