Large eddy simulation of particle deposition in a vertical turbulent channel flow

Abstract

The deposition of particles in fully-developed turbulent channel flow has been calculated using large eddy simulation of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. Calculations were performed for Reynolds numbers of 11,160 and 79,400 (based on bulk velocity and hydraulic diameter); subgrid-scale stresses were parameterized using the dynamic eddy viscosity model. Particle motion was governed by both drag and lift. The effect of particle-particle interactions as well as modification of the turbulent carrier flow by the particles was neglected. In agreement with previous studies, LES results show that particles accumulate in the near-wall region. Statistical measures from the LES calculations such as the particle deposition rate are in reasonable agreement with the direct numerical simulation results of McLaughlin (1989). For particles with identical relaxation times in wall units, deposition rates at the two Reynolds numbers were nearly identical. Issues relevant to application of LES for predicting particle deposition at high Reynolds numbers are also discussed.