| Abstract: | Using the Navier-Stokes equations in conjunction with the k-? model of turbulence, the characteristics of flow in the region downstream of a conical diffuser with 5° angle of inclination are calculated. Two representative stations 1D2 and 10D2 after the diffuser exit are selected for comparison against experimental results. The calculations indicate an underestimation of mean velocity and turbulence kinetic energy at the first station, while satisfactory agreement is obtained for the mean velocity at the second station. The use of a modified k-? model sensitive to adverse pressure conditions improves the predictions considerably. The effect of inlet properties and Reynolds number on the flow characteristics at the above stations is studied using various inlet profiles and a range of Reynolds numbers based on the inlet diameter from 50 000 to 280 000. |
