Numerical modelling of complex turbulent free‐surface flows with the SPH method: an overview

The gridless smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method is now commonly used in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and appears to be promising in predicting complex free‐surface flows. However, increasing flow complexity requires appropriate approaches for taking account of turbulent effects, whereas some authors are still working without any turbulence closure in SPH. A review of recently developed turbulence models adapted to the SPH method is presented herein, from the simplistic point of view of a one‐equation model involving mixing length to more sophisticated (and thus realistic) models like explicit algebraic Reynolds stress models (EARSM) or large eddy simulation (LES). Each proposed model is tested and validated on the basis of schematic cases for which laboratory data, theoretical or numerical solutions are available in the general field of turbulent free‐surface incompressible flows (e.g. open‐channel flow and schematic dam break). They give satisfactory results, even though some progress should be made in the future in terms of free‐surface influence and wall conditions. Recommendations are given to SPH users to apply this method to the modelling of complex free‐surface turbulent flows. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Implementation of physical boundary conditions into computational domain in modelling of oscillatory bottom boundary layers

This paper discusses the importance of realistic implementation of the physical boundary conditions into computational domain for the simulation of the oscillatory turbulent boundary layer flow over smooth and rough flat beds. A mathematical model composed of the Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes equation, turbulent kinetic energy (k) and dissipation rate of the turbulent kinetic energy (ε) has been developed. Control‐volume approach is used to discretize the governing equations to facilitate the numerical solution. Non‐slip condition is imposed on the bottom surface, and irrotational main flow properties are applied to the upper boundary. The turbulent kinetic energy is zero at the bottom, whereas the dissipation rate is approaching to a constant value, which is proportional to the kinematic viscosity times the second derivative of the turbulent kinetic energy. The output of the model is compared with the available experimental studies conducted in oscillatory tunnels and wave flume. It is observed that the irrotational flow assumption at the upper boundary is not realistic in case of water tunnels. Therefore, new upper boundary conditions are proposed for oscillatory tunnels. The data of wave flume show good agreement with the proposed numerical model. Additionally, several factors such as grid aspect ratio, staggered grid arrangement, time‐marching scheme and convergence criteria that are important to obtain a robust, realistic and stable code are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Buoyancy modelling with incompressible SPH for laminar and turbulent flows

This work aims to model buoyant, laminar or turbulent flows, using a two‐dimensional incompressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics model with accurate wall boundary conditions. The buoyancy effects are modelled through the Boussinesq approximation coupled to a heat equation, which makes it possible to apply an incompressible algorithm to compute the pressure field from a Poisson equation. Based on our previous work [1], we extend the unified semi‐analytical wall boundary conditions to the present model. The latter is also combined to a Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes approach to treat turbulent flows. The k ? ? turbulence model is used, where buoyancy is modelled through an additional term in the k ? ? equations like in mesh‐based methods. We propose a unified framework to prescribe isothermal (Dirichlet) or to impose heat flux (Neumann) wall boundary conditions in incompressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics. To illustrate this, a theoretical case is presented (laminar heated Poiseuille flow), where excellent agreement with the theoretical solution is obtained. Several benchmark cases are then proposed: a lock‐exchange flow, two laminar and one turbulent flow in differentially heated cavities, and finally a turbulent heated Poiseuille flow. Comparisons are provided with a finite volume approach using an open‐source industrial code. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

A Navier–Stokes solver for complex three-dimensional turbulent flows adopting non-linear modelling of the Reynolds stresses

A non-linear modelling of the Reynolds stresses has been incorporated into a Navier–Stokes solver for complex three-dimensional geometries. A k–ε model, adopting a modelling of the turbulent transport which is not based on the eddy viscosity, has been written in generalised co-ordinates and solved with a finite volume approach, using both a GMRES solver and a direct solver for the solution of the linear systems of equations. An additional term, quadratic in the main strain rate, has been introduced into the modelling of the Reynolds stresses to the basic Boussinesq's form; the corresponding constant has been evaluated through comparison with the experimental data. The computational procedure is implemented for the flow analysis in a 90° square section bend and the obtained results show that with the non-linear modelling a much better agreement with the measured data is obtained, both for the velocity and the pressure. The importance of the convection scheme is also discussed, showing how the effect of the non-linear correction added to the Reynolds stresses is effectively hidden by the additional numerical diffusion introduced by a low-order convection scheme as the first-order upwind scheme, thus making the use of higher order schemes necessary. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

A two‐scale low‐Reynolds number turbulence model

In this study, a two‐scale low‐Reynolds number turbulence model is proposed. The Kolmogorov turbulence time scale, based on fluid kinematic viscosity and the dissipation rate of turbulent kinetic energy (ν, ε), is adopted to address the viscous effects and the rapid increasing of dissipation rate in the near‐wall region. As a wall is approached, the turbulence time scale transits smoothly from a turbulent kinetic energy based (k, ε) scale to a (ν, ε) scale. The damping functions of the low‐Reynolds number models can thus be simplified and the near‐wall turbulence characteristics, such as the ε distribution, are correctly reproduced. The proposed two‐scale low‐Reynolds number turbulence model is first examined in detail by predicting a two‐dimensional channel flow, and then it is applied to predict a backward‐facing step flow. Numerical results are compared with the direct numerical simulation (DNS) budgets, experimental data and the model results of Chien, and Lam and Bremhorst respectively. It is proved that the proposed two‐scale model indeed improves the predictions of the turbulent flows considered. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Validation of turbulence models in a simulated air-conditioning unit

Details are given of a study to obtain experimental data in an idealized environment for the purpose of evaluating the corresponding computational predictions and which supplement parallel measurements made in actual packaged air-conditioning units. The system consisted of a purpose-built low-speed wind tunnel with a working section constructed to reproduce particular features of the real units. In the experiment, both the mean velocity profiles and turbulence properties of the flow are obtained from triple-hot-wire anemometry measurements. A numerical model, based on finite volume methodology, was used to obtain the solution of the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations for incompressible isothermal flow. The Reynolds stress terms in the equations are calculated using the standard k–ϵ model and second-moment closure (Reynolds stress) models. The accuracy of the two models was evaluated against the experimental measurements made 10 mm downstream of a baffle. The results show that the standard k–ϵ model gave the better agreement except in regions of strong recirculation. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

SOME VALIDATION OF STANDARD,MODIFIED AND NON-LINEAR k–ε TURBULENCE MODELS

Standard, modified and non-linear k–ε: turbulence models are validated against three axisymmetric flow problems—flow through a pipe expansion, flow through a pipe constriction and an impinging jet problem—to underpin knowledge about the solution quality obtained from two-equation turbulence models. The extended models improve the prediction of turbulence as a flow approaches a stagnation point and the non-linear model allows for the prediction of anisotropic turbulence. Significantly different values for the non-linear model coefficients are proposed in comparison with values found in the literature. Nevertheless, current turbulence models are still unable to accurately predict the spreading rate of shear layers. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Int. j. numer. methods fluids, 24: 965–986, 1997.     

Experimental validation of two depth‐averaged turbulence models

A finite volume turbulence model for the resolution of the two‐dimensional shallow water equations with turbulent term is presented. After making a finite volume discretization of the depth‐averaged k–ε equations in conservative form, the q–r equations, that give stability to the process, are obtained. Wall and inlet boundary conditions for the turbulent equations and wall conditions for the hydrodynamic equations are discussed. A comparison between the k–ε and q–r models and some experimental results is made. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

The analysis of the channel flow sensitivity to the parameters of the k–ε method

This paper deals with the problem of using sensitivity analysis for fluid mechanics solutions to the constants of the standard k–ε method for 2D, incompressible and steady flows. The problem is described and analysed on the basis of a channel flow. Sensitivity coefficients of the following properties were determined: a pressure, two components of a velocity, a turbulence kinetic energy, a dissipation rate of turbulence kinetic energy and a turbulence dynamic viscosity. The calculated property values depend on five model constants that are parameters of the sensitivity analysis in this paper. Sensitivity coefficients are derivatives of the above properties, for individual parameters. In this paper these coefficients are determined using a finite difference approximation to the sensitivities coefficients. The author of this paper compares three models of the boundary layer with regard to the sensitivity of properties to the parameters. Irrespective of the boundary layer model used here, the analysis of sensitivity coefficients for the channel flow properties shows that the most sensitive property is the turbulence dissipation rate. Next properties of consequence, although of significantly smaller values of sensitivity coefficients, are the turbulence viscosity and the turbulence kinetic energy. All flow properties are mostly sensitive to the C_µ parameter. One of the final conclusions in this paper is that the analysis of sensitivity coefficient fields allows the reliable checking of results and indicates those areas most prone to calculation difficulties. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Assessment of variants of the k–ϵ turbulence model for engine flow applications

This paper is concerned with simulation of the mean flow and turbulence evolution in a model engine and comparison of the behaviour of certain important turbulence parameters, namely the intensity, length scale and dissipation time scale, as predicted by three variants of the k–? model developed for application to strongly compressible flows. The predictions pertain to the axisymmetric, disc-chamber, four-stroke, Imperial College model engine operating at 200 rpm and compression ratios of 3·5 and 6·7. The paper analyses the predicted variations of these parameters during the induction, compression and expansion strokes and identifies the versions that produce the most consistent and physically plausible variations. The significance, to the turbulence evolution, of the ratio of the turbulence dissipation time scale to the time scale of compression/expansion is also discussed. It is concluded that on these grounds the Morel–Mansour and El Tahry versions are, and the Watkins version is not, suitable for engine applications.     

NUMERICAL PREDICTION OF SEMI-CONFINED JET IMPINGEMENT AND COMPARISON WITH EXPERIMENTAL DATA

The standard k–ε eddy viscosity model of turbulence in conjunction with the logarithmic law of the wall has been applied to the prediction of a fully developed turbulent axisymmetric jet impinging within a semi-confined space. A single geometry with a Reynolds number of 20,000 and a nozzle-to-plate spacing of two diameters has been considered with inlet boundary conditions based on measured profiles of velocity and turbulence. Velocity, turbulence and heat transfer data have been obtained using laser–Doppler anemometry and liquid crystal thermography respectively. In the developing wall jet, numerical results of heat transfer compare to within 20% of experiment where isotropy prevails and the trends in turbulent kinetic energy are predicted. However, stagnation point heat transfer is overpredicted by about 300%, which is attributed directly to the turbulence model and inapplicability of the wall function.     

A numerical model for aerated‐water wave breaking

This work presents a numerical model designed for the simulation of water‐wave impacts on a structure when aeration of the liquid phase is considered. The model is based on a multifluid Navier–Stokes approach in which all fluids are assumed compressible. The numerical method is based on a finite volume algorithm in space and a second order Runge–Kutta method in time. A validation of this model is performed. It shows a good accuracy for acoustic and shock wave propagation in a bubbly liquid and for wave breaking. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

PREDICTION OF AEROFOIL WAKE SUBJECTED TO THE EFFECTS OF CURVATURE AND PRESSURE GRADIENT

Experimental data on the development of wakes in a straight duct, a curved duct, a curved diffuser and a straight diffuser are compared with computations based on a finite volume scheme incorporating the k– ε model of turbulence. The results show that the computations based on the standard k–ε model are able to satisfactorily capture only the mean velocity profiles. To improve the predictions, several modifications to the model are tried out. Close agreement between experiment and computation as regards the velocity profiles, wake parameters and profiles of the turbulent kinetic energy k and Reynolds shear stress ⌅{uv} is obtained when modification to the model constant C_μ, based on the curvature parameter and the ratio of the production of turbulent kinetic energy to its rate of dissipation, is incorporated. The modified model is also able to capture the asymmetry in the profiles of k and ⌅{uv} caused by the curvature and its enhancement due to the additional presence of an adverse pressure gradient.     

Suitability of the k–ω turbulence model for scramjet flowfield simulations

The suitability of Wilcox's 2006 k– ω turbulence model for scramjet flowfield simulations is demonstrated by validation against five test cases that have flowfields representative of those to be expected in scramjets. The five test cases include a 2D flat plate, an axisymmetric cylinder, a backward‐facing step, the mixing of a pair of coaxial jets and the interaction between a shock wave and turbulent boundary layer. A generally good agreement between the numerical and experimental results is obtained for all test cases. These tests reveal that despite the turbulence model's sensitivity to freestream turbulence properties, the numerically predicted skin friction agrees with experimental data and theoretical correlations to their degree of uncertainty. The tests also confirm the importance of using a y⁺ value of less than 1 in getting accurate surface heat transfer distributions. In the coaxial jets case, the importance of matching the turbulence intensities at the inflow plane in improving the predictions of the turbulent mixing phenomena is also shown. A review of guidelines with regard to the setting up of grids and specification of freestream turbulence properties for turbulent Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes CFD simulations is also included in this paper. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Applications of the artificial compressibility method for turbulent open channel flows

A three‐dimensional (3‐D) numerical method for solving the Navier–Stokes equations with a standard k–ε turbulence model is presented. In order to couple pressure with velocity directly, the pressure is divided into hydrostatic and hydrodynamic parts and the artificial compressibility method (ACM) is employed for the hydrodynamic pressure. By introducing a pseudo‐time derivative of the hydrodynamic pressure into the continuity equation, the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations are changed from elliptic‐parabolic to hyperbolic‐parabolic equations. In this paper, a third‐order monotone upstream‐centred scheme for conservation laws (MUSCL) method is used for the hyperbolic equations. A system of discrete equations is solved implicitly using the lower–upper symmetric Gauss–Seidel (LU‐SGS) method. This newly developed numerical method is validated against experimental data with good agreement. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Shallow-water flow solver with non-hydrostatic pressure: 2D vertical plane problems

A numerical solution for shallow-water flow is developed based on the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations without the conventional assumption of hydrostatic pressure. Instead, the non-hydrostatic pressure component may be added in regions where its influence is significant, notably where bed slope is not small and separation in a vertical plane may occur or where the free-surface slope is not small. The equations are solved in the σ-co-ordinate system with semi-implicit time stepping and the eddy viscosity is calculated using the standard k–ϵ turbulence model. Conventionally, boundary conditions at the bed for shallow-water models only include vertical diffusion terms using wall functions, but here they are extended to include horizontal diffusion terms which can be significant when bed slope is not small. This is consistent with the inclusion of non-hydrostatic pressure. The model is applied to the 2D vertical plane flow of a current over a trench for which experimental data and other numerical results are available for comparison. Computations with and without non-hydrostatic pressure are compared for the same trench and for trenches with smaller side slopes, to test the range of validity of the conventional hydrostatic pressure assumption. The model is then applied to flow over a 2D mound and again the slope of the mound is reduced to assess the validity of the hydrostatic pressure assumption. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

A comparative study of truly incompressible and weakly compressible SPH methods for free surface incompressible flows

In this paper, the performance of the incompressible SPH (ISPH) method and an improved weakly compressible SPH (IWCSPH) method for free surface incompressible flows are compared and analyzed. In both methods, the Navier–Stokes equations are solved, and no artificial viscosity is used. The ISPH algorithm in this paper is based on the classical SPH projection method with common treatments on solid boundaries and free surfaces. The IWCSPH model includes some advanced corrective algorithms in density approximation and solid boundary treatment (SBT). In density approximation, the moving least squares (MLS) approach is applied to re‐initialize density every several steps to obtain smoother and more stable pressure fields. An improved coupled dynamic SBT algorithm is implemented to obtain stable pressure values near solid wall areas and, thus, to minimize possible numerical oscillations brought in by the solid boundaries. Three representative numerical examples, including a benchmark test for hydrostatic pressure, a dam breaking problem and a liquid sloshing problem, are comparatively analyzed with ISPH and IWCSPH. It is demonstrated that the present IWCSPH is more attractive than ISPH in modeling free surface incompressible flows as it is more accurate and more stable with comparable or even less computational efforts. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.