Simulating two-dimensional turbulent flow by using the κ–ϵ model and the vorticity–streamfunction formulation

A numerical procedure to solve turbulent flow which makes use of the κ–? model has been developed. The method is based on a control volume finite element method and an unstructured triangular domain discretization. The velocity-pressure coupling is addressed via the vorticity-streamfunction and special attention is given to the boundary conditions for the vorticity. Wall effects are taken into account via wail functions or a low-Reynolds-number model. The latter was found to perform better in recirculation regions. Source terms of the κ and ε transport equations have been linearized in a particular way to avoid non-realistic solutions. The vorticity and streamfunction discretized equations are solved in a coupled way to produce a faster and more stable computational procedure. Comparison between the numerical predictions and experimental data shows that the physics of the flow is correctly simulated.