Numerical Simulation of Developing Pulsating Flow (Low Re Number Flow) in a U-shaped Pipe

Abstract

This paper concerns the secondary flow due to pulsating flows with various frequencies in a U-shaped pipe, solved by a finite difference method with CIP and fractional step methods in a general coordinate system. The streamwise velocity distributions obtained are confirmed with experimental results. The resultant secondary flow is complicatedly changed by the induced secondary and third vortex cores. The intensity of the secondary flow does change throughout the curved pipe, indicating the flow is still developing even at the exit. The overall intensity of the secondary flow within the pipe increases with an increase in the pulsating frequency.