Prediction of Flows With Strong Curvature and Pressure Gradient Using the k–ε Turbulence Model

Abstract

The k –ε turbulence model of Launder and Spalding has found widespread application in the computation of fluid flows. Under conditions of strong adverse pressure gradient or strong streamline curvature, the accuracy of the model is known to decrease. The present paper adds to the available case studies involving these types of flows by providing predictions for two problems. In the first problem, Simpson’s flow, an adverse pressure gradient induces the flow along a planar surface to separate. The second problem is unseparated flow over an airfoil. In addition to predictions using the standard k –ε model, results are reported from another k –ε model by Hanjalic and Launder, that has been modified to account for adverse pressure gradients.