Direct and Large Eddy Simulations Using the SIMPLE Algorithm

Abstract

The standard SIMPLE algorithm is examined for simulation of turbulent channel flow. The algorithm is currently underutilized for turbulent simulations. It is explained and demonstrated why its implicit time integration scheme should be considered for practical and generic turbulent simulations. Taking advantage of the implicit time integration feature of SIMPLE algorithm, a systematic error reduction method is presented, by which highly accurate LES solutions can be obtained while computational cost is substantially reduced. In addition to the effect of time steps, the effects of two popular spatial discretization schemes for convective terms are examined for fully developed channel flow. Smagorinsky and dynamic Smagorinsky subgrid models are also implemented and tested for different spatial resolutions. It is demonstrated that these subgrid models do not necessarily improve turbulent solutions.

Acknowledgments

Author would like to sincerely thank professors Javad Mostaghimi and Cyrus K. Madnia for their valuable comments that improved the manuscript. This work could not be finalized without the invaluable support from professor Mostaghimi.