Quadratic and cubic eddy-viscosity models in turbulent supercavitating flow computation

Abstract

Quadratic and cubic non-linear eddy-viscosity turbulence models (NLEVM) with low Reynolds number (Re) correction were presented to provide better description of anisotropic turbulence stresses in the numerical prediction of supercavitating flows, which are accompanied with large density ratio and large-scaled swirling flow structures. The applications of the NLEVM were carried out through a self-developed cavitation codes, coupled with a cavitation model based on the transport equation of liquid phase. These NLEVM were verified capable of capturing more accurate macroscopic shape and hydrodynamic property of supercavity by the benchmark problems of supercavities over simple objects. Finally, the cubic NLEVM was further applied to the numerical prediction of supercavitating flow around a complex submerged vehicle. The corresponding cavitation behaviors were explored in detail to provide beneficial experience for further research.