Modelling of strongly swirling flows in a complex geometry using unstructured meshes

Purpose - Seeks to examine the performance of conventional turbulence models modelling strongly swirling flows within a Symmetrical Turn up Vortex Amplifier, with adjustment of the turbulence model constants to improve agreement with experimental data. Design/methodology/approach - First, the standard k-epsilon model and the Reynolds Stress Model (RSM) were used with standard values of model constants, using both the first order upwind and the quadratic upstream interpolation for convective kinetics (QUICK) schemes. Then, the swirling effect was corrected by adjusting the model coefficients. Findings - The standard RSM with the QUICK did produce better predictions but still significantly overestimated the experimental data. Much improved simulation was obtained with the systematic adjustment of the model constants in the standard k-epsilon model using the QUICK. The physical significance of the model constants accounted for changes of the eddy viscosity, and the production and destruction of k and epsilon. Research limitations/implications - More industrial cases could benefit from this simple and useful approach. Originality/value - The constant adjustment is regular and directed, based on the eddy viscosity and the production and destruction of k and e. The regularity of the effect of the model constants on the solutions makes it easier to quickly adjust them for other industrial applications.