Applicability of large eddy simulations to capture turbulence attenuation in particle-laden channel flows

Abstract

The applicability of large eddy simulation (LES) (Smagorinksy and dynamic Smagorinsky) models in predicting turbulence modulation is investigated. The LES models capture the turbulence modulation/fluctuations accurately at low volume fractions. However, at high volume loading, the LES models underpredict the turbulent kinetic energy production, which results in an underprediction of the particle volume loading where complete turbulence collapse is observed. The study highlights that modeling error in LES models is more significant at high particle volume loading than the filtering error and inaccuracy in feedback force.