Abstract

A concept for a new turbulence model, which combines the Low-Reynolds-Number (LRN) k–ω model with a Length Scale Correction (LSC) term is proposed. The present model was developed for solving recirculating flow which is an important feature in many engineering applications. The LSC term employed here is ω–LSC – a new LSC uses the analogy of Yap correction. By integrating the term with the conventional LRN k–ω model, the turbulent length scale in the near-wall region is reduced which subsequently leads to better prediction of separations and reattachments that occur in this area. The developed model is validated with benchmark problems (the fully developed channel flow and backward-facing step flow) before being applied to the problem of recirculating flow over repeated square ribs. Performance of the model is investigated and compared with available experimental data, Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) data and numerical results using other turbulence models. It is seen that the model gives superior results especially for the near-wall flow patterns.

Key words: Low-Reynolds-number k–ω model, recirculating flows, length scale correction, finite volume method  and  BLL model.