Experimental measurements and large eddy simulation of particle deposition distribution around a multi-slot diffuser

Abstract

Enhanced soiling around multi-slot air diffusers due to particle deposition is frequently observed in commercial airplanes. The dirty black soiling is very unsightly and influences the passengers’ perception of cabin air quality. This study conducted experimental measurements and large eddy simulations with Lagrangian tracking for the distribution of particle deposition around a multi-slot diffuser. This investigation first used a relatively simple case of indoor particle deposition to compare the LES-Lagrangian model with the RANS-Lagrangian model with near-wall turbulence kinetic energy correction. The comparison shows that the LES-Lagrangian model was more robust than the RANS-Lagrangian model in predicting particle deposition indoors. The superior LES-Lagrangian model was then applied in predicting the particle deposition distribution around a multi-slot diffuser. This investigation also conducted detailed measurements of the distribution of particle deposition around the multi-slot diffuser in a laboratory chamber using a wiping method on a resolution of 3 × 20 mm2. The measurement accuracy of the wiping method was within 20%. The particle deposition distribution predicted by the LES-Lagrangian model was compared with the experimental data to validate the model. The results indicated that the LES-Lagrangian model correctly predicted the order of magnitude of the particle deposition velocity distribution around the multi-slot diffuser with an average relative error of 63.2%.