Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “Turbulence modeling”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 343 records · Page 19

Turbulence modeling for compressible flows

Material prepared for a course on Applications and Fundamentals of Turbulence given at the University of Tennessee Space Institute, January 10 and 11, 1977, is presented. A complete concept of turbulence modeling is described, and examples of progess for its use in computational aerodynimics are given. Modeling concepts, experiments, and computations using the concepts are reviewed in a manner that provides an up-to-date statement on the status of this problem for compressible flows.

Marvin, J. G.↗

Turbulence modelling in CFD: Present status, future prospects

Information is given in viewgraph form for turbulence modeling in computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The Eddy Viscosity Models (EVM), Algebraic Second Moment Closures (ASM), and Differential Second-Moment Closures (DSM) are considered. It is concluded that EVM's, ASM's, and DSM's will remain in use, though with a steady decline in importance of EVM's and ASM's in favor of DSM's. Improved versions of low-Re two-equation EVM's should lead to more reliable predictions of separated flows than are achievable at present. Further refinement of sub-models in second moment closures can be expected throughout this decade. There will be increasing attention given to interfacing SMC with higher order approaches such as LES, and an increased use of two-time-scale schemes providing distinct time scales for large and fairly small eddies.

Launder, Brian E.↗

Effects of Artificial Viscosity on the Accuracy of High-reynolds-number Kappa-epsilon Turbulence Model

Wall functions, as used in the typical high Reynolds number k-epsilon turbulence model, can be implemented in various ways. A least disruptive method (to the flow solver) is to directly solve for the flow variables at the grid point next to the wall while prescribing the values of k and epsilon. For the centrally-differenced finite-difference scheme employing artificial viscocity (AV) as a stabilizing mechanism, this methodology proved to be totally useless. This is because the AV gives rise to a large error at the wall due to too steep a velocity gradient resulting from the use of a coarse grid as required by the wall function methodology. This error can be eliminated simply by extrapolating velocities at the wall, instead of using the physical values of the no-slip velocities (i.e. the zero value). The applicability of the technique used in this paper is demonstrated by solving a flow over a flat plate and comparing the results with those of experiments. It was also observed that AV gives rise to a velocity overshoot (about 1 percent) near the edge of the boundary layer. This small velocity error, however, can yield as much as 10 percent error in the momentum thickness. A method which integrates the boundary layer up to only the edge of the boundary (instead of infinity) was proposed and demonstrated to give better results than the standard method.

Chitsomboon, Tawit↗

Implementation and Validation of the Chien k-epsilon Turbulence Model in the Wind Navier-Stokes Code

The two equation k-epsilon turbulence model of Chien has been implemented in the WIND Navier-Stokes flow solver. Details of the numerical solution algorithm, initialization procedure, and stability enhancements are described. Results obtained with this version of the model are compared with those from the Chien k-epsilon model in the NPARC Navier-Stokes code and from the WIND SST model for three validation cases: the incompressible flow over a smooth flat plate, the incompressible flow over a backward facing step, and the shock-induced flow separation inside a transonic diffuser. The k-epsilon model results indicate that the WIND model functions very similarly to that in NPARC, though the WIND code appears to he slightly more accurate in the treatment of the near-wall region. Comparisons of the k-epsilon model results with those from the SST model were less definitive, as each model exhibited strengths and weaknesses for each particular case.

Yoder, Dennis A.↗

One-Equation Turbulence Models in Aerodynamics

The present paper shows under which assumptions one-equation models can be derived from two-equation models. Based on that transformation a new one-equation turbulence model is derived that basically behaves like a two-equation model. The new model is compared in detail against existing models

Menter, F. R.↗

Simulating boundary layer transition with low-Reynolds-number k-epsilon turbulence models. I - An evaluation of prediction characteristics. II - An approach to improving the predictions

The capability of two k-epsilon low-Reynolds number (LRN) turbulence models, those of Jones and Launder (1972) and Lam and Bremhorst (1981), to predict transition in external boundary-layer flows subject to free-stream turbulence is analyzed. Both models correctly predict the basic qualitative aspects of boundary-layer transition with free stream turbulence, but for calculations started at low values of certain defined Reynolds numbers, the transition is generally predicted at unrealistically early locations. Also, the methods predict transition lengths significantly shorter than those found experimentally. An approach to overcoming these deficiencies without abandoning the basic LRN k-epsilon framework is developed. This approach limits the production term in the turbulent kinetic energy equation and is based on a simple stability criterion. It is correlated to the free-stream turbulence value. The modification is shown to improve the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the transition predictions.

Schmidt, R. C.↗

NASA Symposium on Turbulence Modeling: Roadblocks, and the Potential for Machine Learning

A three-day symposium sponsored by NASA was held in July 2022 in Suffolk, Virginia on the subject of Turbulence Modeling: Roadblocks, and the Potential for Machine Learning. This meeting brought together over 80 experts from academia, government, and industry to discuss critical issues for Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence and transition models, as well as to evaluate the results from a collaborative testing challenge based on data-driven methods and machine learning technology. This report puts this symposium in context with an earlier similar meeting and summarizes many of the questions, discussions, and conclusions that arose from it. Next steps are suggested.

machine learning↗

The study of PDF turbulence models in combustion

In combustion computations, it is known that the predictions of chemical reaction rates are poor if conventional turbulence models are used. The probability density function (pdf) method seems to be the only alternative that uses local instantaneous values of the temperature, density, etc., in predicting chemical reaction rates, and thus is the only viable approach for more accurate turbulent combustion calculations. The fact that the pdf equation has a very large dimensionality renders finite difference schemes extremely demanding on computer memories and thus impractical. A logical alternative is the Monte Carlo scheme. Since CFD has a certain maturity as well as acceptance, it seems that the use of a combined CFD and Monte Carlo scheme is more beneficial. Therefore, a scheme is chosen that uses a conventional CFD flow solver in calculating the flow field properties such as velocity, pressure, etc., while the chemical reaction part is solved using a Monte Carlo scheme. The discharge of a heated turbulent plane jet into quiescent air was studied. Experimental data for this problem shows that when the temperature difference between the jet and the surrounding air is small, buoyancy effect can be neglected and the temperature can be treated as a passive scalar. The fact that jet flows have a self-similar solution lends convenience in the modeling study. Futhermore, the existence of experimental data for turbulent shear stress and temperature variance make the case ideal for the testing of pdf models wherein these values can be directly evaluated.

Hsu, Andrew T.↗

A turbulence model for nonequilibrium adverse pressure gradient flows

This paper presents a method for calculating compressible adverse pressure gradient boundary layers by using an algebraic eddy viscosity turbulence model that has been modified for variable pressure gradient and turbulence memory effects. The pressure gradient corrections are based on previous incompressible data correlations. Several methods for including the effects of turbulence memory are evaluated. A new lag model, which gives good agreement with available experimental data, is developed. Finally, a correlation is developed for the lag length parameter employed in the model as a function of the known experimental flow variables.

Horstman, C. C.↗

On turbulence modeling for unsteady transonic flows

A detailed examination of the turbulent field in an unsteady transonic flow undergoing shock-induced separation is conducted. Ensemble-averaged mean and fluctuating velocities, obtained from conditionally sampled laser velocimeter data, are described and analyzed to assess the applicability of modeling concepts usually employed in steady-flow problems. Some comparisons with computations employing the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations with a mixing length turbulence model are then presented to illustrate the status of current predictive capabilities. The results appear to imply that turbulence models developed for steady flows apply and that the model need not reflect all the fine details of the turbulent structure but rather account in an approximate way for the production and destruction of the turbulence.

Marvin, J. G.↗

Data-Driven Turbulence Modeling: Summary and Outcomes of the 2022 NASA Symposium

A three-day symposium sponsored by NASA was held in July 2022 in Suffolk, Virginia on the subject of Turbulence Modeling: Roadblocks, and the Potential for Machine Learning. This meeting brought together over 80 experts from academia, government, and industry to discuss critical issues for Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) turbulence and transition models, as well as to evaluate the results from a collaborative testing challenge based on data-driven methods and machine learning (ML) technology. The symposium represents a continuation of an earlier symposium sponsored by the University of Michigan and NASA, held in Ann Arbor, MI in 2017. The 2022 symposium included a wide variety of talks on the subjects of RANS and ML, five invited talks, and three panel discussions. This talk summarizes the main outcomes of the symposium, and includes suggested recommendations and future directions.

machine learning↗

Application of a two-equation turbulence model for high speed compressible flows using unstructured grids

Application of a two-equation compressible turbulence model for practical hypersonic flows 18 presented. The solution algorithm is based on solving all of the governing equations simultaneously. Application of the solution procedure to several test cases for compressible flows show good agreement with theoretical predictions and/or other computational results. The solution procedure is employed to investigate the effects of turbulence in Type III and Type IV shock-shock interactions in hypersonic flows in association with adaptive unstructured grids. Computational results for these cases are compared with available experimental data.

Vemaganti, Gururaja R.↗

Application of a Reynolds Stress turbulence model to a supersonic hydrogen-air diffusion flame

A second-order differential Reynolds Stress turbulence model has been applied to the Favre-averaged Navier-Stokes equations for the study of supersonic flows undergoing hydrogen-air chemical reactions. An assumed Beta Probability Density Function is applied to account for the chemical source terms in the conservation equations. An algebraic Reynolds Flux model is used for the fluctuating density-velocity as well as the species mass fraction-velocity correlations. The variances of temperature and species fluctuations are also modelled using an algebraic flux technique. A seven-species, seven-reaction finite rate chemistry mechanism is used to simulate the combustion processes. The resulting formulation is validated by comparison with experimental data on reacting supersonic axisymmetric jets. Results obtained for specific conditions indicate that the effect of chemical reaction on the turbulence is significant.

Chandrasekhar, R.↗

Numerical Study of Turbulence Model Predictions for the MD 30P/30N and NHLP-2D Three-Element Highlift Configurations

This report details calculations for the McDonnell-Douglas 30P/30N and the NHLP-2D three-element highlift configurations. Calculations were performed with the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes code ISAAC to study the effects of various numerical issues on high lift predictions. These issues include the effect of numerical accuracy on the advection terms of the turbulence equations, Navier-Stokes versus the thin-layer Navier-Stokes approximation, an alternative formulation of the production term, and the performance of several turbulence models. The effect of the transition location on the NHLP-2D flow solution was investigated. Two empirical transition models were used to estimate the transition location.

Turbulence modeling↗

Investigation of the validity of Reynolds averaged turbulence models at the frequencies that occur in turbomachinery

Turbulent flows subjected to various kinds of unsteady disturbances were simulated using a large-eddy-simulation computer code for flow in a channel. The disturbances were: a normal velocity expressed as a traveling wave on one wall of the channel; staggered blowing and suction distributions on the opposite walls of the channel; and oscillations of the mean flow through the channel. The wall boundary conditions were designed to simulate the effects of wakes of a stator stage passing through a rotor channel in a turbine. The oscillating flow simulated the effects of a pressure pulse moving over the rotor blade boundary layer. The objective of the simulations was to provide better understanding of the effects of time-dependent disturbances on the turbulence of a boundary layer and of the underlying physical phenomena regarding the basic interaction between the turbulence and external disturbances of the type found in turbomachinery. Results showed that turbulence is sensitive to certain ranges of frequencies of disturbances. However, no direct connection was found between the frequency of imposed disturbances and characteristic burst frequency of turbulence. New insight into the nature of turbulence at high frequencies was found. The viscous phenomena near solid walls was found to be the dominant influence for high frequency perturbations. At high frequencies, the turbulence was found to be undisturbed, remaining the same as for the steady mean flow. A transition range exists between the high frequency range and the low, or quasi-steady, range in which the turbulence is not predictable by either quasi-steady models or the steady flow model. The limiting lowest frequency for use of the steady flow turbulence model is that for which the viscous Stokes layer based on the blade passing frequency is thicker than the laminar sublayer.

Kuhn, Gary D.↗

Modification of the MML turbulence model for adverse pressure gradient flows

Computational fluid dynamics is being used increasingly to predict flows for aerospace propulsion applications, yet there is still a need for an easy to use, computationally inexpensive turbulence model capable of accurately predicting a wide range of turbulent flows. The Baldwin-Lomax model is the most widely used algebraic model, even though it has known difficulties calculating flows with strong adverse pressure gradients and large regions of separation. The modified mixing length model (MML) was developed specifically to handle the separation which occurs on airfoils and has given significantly better results than the Baldwin-Lomax model. The success of these calculations warrants further evaluation and development of MML. The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance of MML for zero and adverse pressure gradient flows, and modify it as needed. The Proteus Navier-Stokes code was used for this study and all results were compared with experimental data and with calculations made using the Baldwin-Lomax algebraic model, which is currently available in Proteus. The MML model was first evaluated for zero pressure gradient flow over a flat plate, then modified to produce the proper boundary layer growth. Additional modifications, based on experimental data for three adverse pressure gradient flows, were also implemented. The adapted model, called MMLPG (modified mixing length model for pressure gradient flows), was then evaluated for a typical propulsion flow problem, flow through a transonic diffuser. Three cases were examined: flow with no shock, a weak shock and a strong shock. The results of these calculations indicate that the objectives of this study have been met. Overall, MMLPG is capable of accurately predicting the adverse pressure gradient flows examined in this study, giving generally better agreement with experimental data than the Baldwin-Lomax model.

Conley, Julianne M.↗

Improved turbulence models based on large eddy simulation of homogeneous, incompressible turbulent flows

The physical bases of large eddy simulation and subgrid modeling are studied. A subgrid scale similarity model is developed that can account for system rotation. Large eddy simulations of homogeneous shear flows with system rotation were carried out. Apparently contradictory experimental results were explained. The main effect of rotation is to increase the transverse length scales in the rotation direction, and thereby decrease the rates of dissipation. Experimental results are shown to be affected by conditions at the turbulence producing grid, which make the initial states a function of the rotation rate. A two equation model is proposed that accounts for effects of rotation and shows good agreement with experimental results. In addition, a Reynolds stress model is developed that represents the turbulence structure of homogeneous shear flows very well and can account also for the effects of system rotation.

Bardino, J.↗

Numerical comparison of strong Langmuir turbulence models

Two models of Langmuir turbulence, the nonlinear Schroedinger equation and the Zakharov equations, are solved numerically for an initial value problem in which the electric field evolves from an almost flat initial condition via the modulational instability and finally saturates into a set of solitons. The two models agree well with each other only when the initial dimensionless electric field has an amplitude less than unity. An analytic soliton gas model consisting of equal-amplitude, randomly spaced, zero-speed solitons is remarkably good at reproducing the time-averaged Fourier spectra in both cases.

Shen, Mei-Mei↗