Turbulent flow modeling using a fast, parallel, vortex tube and sheet method

Abstract

Vortex methods, particularly when regarded as a gridfree technique for large eddy simulation, represent a promising new alternative for modeling high Reynolds number, turbulent, engineering flows. To be successful, equal consideration must be given to efficiency and accuracy. Thus, the requisite number of vortex elements in the calculation should be kept to a minimum, though without sacrificing the essential flow physics. Moreover, it is necessary to incorporate a fast method for calculating the velocities due to many vortex elements from the Biot-Savart law, e.g. through use of a parallel implementation of the Fast Multipole method (Greengard and Rokhlin 1987). This paper describes our recent efforts in developing a vortex method with these capabilities. A brief discussion of some of the principal features of the method will be followed by a presentation of some preliminary results in modeling high Reynolds number flow past a 6:1 prolate spheroid.