| Abstract: | Numerical solutions to the three-dimensional, unsteady, incompressible Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations have been obtained for bubble-type vortex breakdown. Two different turbulence models were employed: (1) standard K-ε and (2) an explicit, regularized algebraic Reynolds stress model. Results are computed at a Reynolds number of 10,000. The algebraic Reynolds stress model produced a breakdown bubble with a larger length-to-diameter ratio than did the K-ε model. Breakdown also occurred at lower levels of adverse pressure gradient for the algebraic stress model than for the K-ε model. In each case single-cell breakdown structures resulted. This is contrasted with numerical calculations for laminar breakdown which reveal the existence of complex multicell bubble breakdown structures. |
