Review and numerical investigation of the mean flow features of a round turbulent jet in counterflow

A turbulent jet in counterflow is a lesser-studied jet configuration which exhibits great potential for mixing applications in sustainable energy production. In this paper, a comprehensive literature review of the research in counter-flowing jets is performed. Experimental and numerical results for mean and turbulent quantities are reviewed, and similarities and differences between datasets are discussed. Additionally, large eddy simulations (LESs) are carried out in order to study a turbulent jet in counterflow at several jet-to-counterflow velocity ratios (alpha = 2.2, 3.4, 5.1). The effect of two different jet inflow conditions is investigated. The LES results are directly compared to the available literature, and the subsequent analysis sheds light on the differences seen in the review. Finally, a set of recommendations and best practices are provided in order to aid future studies of jets in counterflow.