| Abstract: | This paper describes a finite element numerical model for the simulation of both steady and truly transient turbulent flow in two dimensions. All elements of the model and computational approach were chosen, however, for ease of applicability in the future to fully three-dimensional flows. The turbulent mean flow is described by the Reynolds- averaged Navier–Stokes equations. The well-known two-equation K–ε model is the base for the representation of turbulence quantities. From three candidate algebraic stress models, Rodi's model was chosen for implementation after preliminary tests on turbulent channel flow. The scheme was then tested at length on flow past a backward-facing step and flow past a box. Comparisons were made with the computed and experimental results of other investigators. For the backward-facing step problem the model appears to equal or improve upon the accuracy of prediction s of earlier finite element codes. The frequency of vortex shedding from the corners of the box in terms of the Strouhal number is predicted well. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
