Two-Dimensional Simulation of Wave Propagation in a Three-Pipe Junction

Abstract

The modelling of wave propagation in complex pipe junctions is one of the biggest challenges for simulation codes, particularly those applied to flows in engine manifolds. In the present work an inviscid two-dimensional model, using an advanced numerical scheme, has been applied to the simulation of shock-wave propagation through a three-pipe junction; the results are compared with corresponding schlieren images and measured pressure-time histories. An approximate Riemann solver is used in the shock-capturing finite volume scheme and the influence of the order of accuracy of the solver and the use of adaptive mesh refinement are investigated. The code can successfully predict the evolution and reflection of the wave fronts at the junctions whilst the run time is such as to make it feasible to include such a model as a local multi-dimensional region within a one-dimensional wave-action simulation of flow in engine manifolds. [S0742-4795(00)01304-1]