A level set redistancing algorithm for simulation of two-phase flow

Abstract

Incompressible two-phase flow involving interface evolution was studied using a level set method. To maintain the level set function as a signed distance function from the zero level set and meanwhile preserve the mass conservation, a level set redistancing algorithm of level set methods was developed. Important to the above level set redistancing algorithm was a new idea that keeps the zero level set almost unchanged during the redistancing process. Protection of the zero level set is introduced in the redistancing process to ensure that the interface does not change, thus reducing or even avoiding mass errors induced. Accuracy of this algorithm was verified in terms of such benchmark problems as deforming vortex and Zalesak’s disk problems. Numerical examples including 2D and 3D dam-break and 3D single bubble rising simulations are presented to validate the present level set method. Mass conservation and computational costs involving complicated interfacial flow structures are also presented.