Finite element simulation of recirculating flows with heat transfer

Abstract

AbstractThe finite element method was investigated as a means of simulating incompressible laminar and turbulent flow with heat transfer. Governing equations include the complete, two‐dimensional Navier–Stokes equations expressed in terms of primitive variables. The turbulent viscosity is determined by a two‐equation (k‐ϵ) model of turbulence. Both high Reynolds' number and low Reynolds' number forms of the two‐equations model were considered. The formulation was first tested in laminar recirculating flows as well as in a fully developed turbulent channel flow. The code was then applied successfully to flow past a confined backward facing step and to a backward facing ramp. Although the high Reynolds' number turbulence model was found to be incompatible with the current numerical scheme, good results were obtained using the low Reynolds' number model. Results of the current calculations are compared with experimental data and a variety of other computational results.