Assessment of a hybrid finite element and finite volume code for turbulent incompressible flows

Abstract

Hydra-TH is a hybrid finite-element/finite-volume incompressible/low-Mach flow simulation code based on the Hydra multiphysics toolkit being developed and used for thermal-hydraulics applications. In the present work, a suite of verification and validation (V&V) test problems for Hydra-TH was defined to meet the design requirements of the Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL). The intent for this test problem suite is to provide baseline comparison data that demonstrates the performance of the Hydra-TH solution methods. The simulation problems vary in complexity from laminar to turbulent flows. A set of RANS and LES turbulence models were used in the simulation of four classical test problems. Numerical results obtained by Hydra-TH agreed well with either the available analytical solution or experimental data, indicating the verified and validated implementation of these turbulence models in Hydra-TH. Where possible, some form of solution verification has been attempted to identify sensitivities in the solution methods, and suggest best practices when using the Hydra-TH code. • We performed a comprehensive study to verify and validate the turbulence models in Hydra-TH. • Hydra-TH delivers 2nd-order grid convergence for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. • Hydra-TH can accurately simulate the laminar boundary layers. • Hydra-TH can accurately simulate the turbulent boundary layers with RANS turbulence models. • Hydra-TH delivers high-fidelity LES capability for simulating turbulent flows in confined space.