A PLIC volume tracking method for the simulation of two-fluid flows

Numerical methodologies for computer simulations of two-fluid flows are presented. These methodologies fall into the category of volume tracking methods with piecewise-linear interface calculation (PLIC). The scope of this work is limited to laminar flows of immiscible, non-reacting, incompressible Newtonian fluids, without phase change, in planar two-dimensional geometries. The following novel or enhanced procedures are proposed: a parallelogram scheme for multidimensional advection of the volume-fraction field; a circle-fit technique for the orientation of the interface segments and the calculation of curvature; a novel contact angle treatment; and a staggered formulation for volumetric body forces that can accurately balance pressure forces in the vicinity of the interface. In addition, surface-tension-derived and hydrostatic-derived pressure adjustments are introduced as a means of accurately calculating pressure forces in cells that contain the interface, so as to minimize the nonphysical flows that afflict many available volume tracking methods. The proposed method is validated using four test problems that involve simulations of pure advection, a static drop, an oscillating bubble, and a static meniscus. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.