Numerical Experiments in Turbulent Natural Convection Using Two-Equation Eddy-Viscosity Models

Abstract

This work is focused on the simulation and prediction of turbulent natural convection flows by means of two-equation eddy-viscosity models. In order to show the generality, precision, and numerical issues related to these models under natural convection, three different buoyancy-driven cavities have been simulated: a tall cavity with a 30:1 aspect ratio, a cavity with a 5:1 aspect ratio, and, finally, a 4:1 aspect ratio cavity. All cases are solved under moderate and∕or transitional Rayleigh numbers (2.43×1010, 5×1010, and 1×1010, respectively) and all simulations are compared to experimental and∕or direct numerical simulation data available in literature. These different situations allow to check the applicability of two-equation eddy-viscosity models in buoyancy-driven flows, giving criteria on computational effort∕precision and their physical behavior.