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Numerical simulation of the turbulent Rayleigh–Bénard problem using subgrid modelling

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 April 2006

Thomas M. Eidson
Thomas M. Eidson
Affiliation:
Georgia Institute of Technology, School of Mechanical Engineering
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Abstract

A numerical simulation of turbulent natural convection (the Rayleigh–Bénard problem) has been conducted using large-eddy-simulation (LES) methods and the results compared with several experiments. The development of the LES equation is outlined and discussed. The modelling of the small-scale turbulent motion (called subgrid modelling) is also discussed. The resulting LES equations are solved and data collected over a short period of time in a similar manner to the direct simulation of the governing conservation equations. An explicit, second-order accurate, finite-difference scheme is used to solve the equations. Various average properties of the resulting flow field are calculated from the data and compared with experimental data in the literature. The use of a subgrid model allows a higher value of Ra to be simulated than was previously possible with a direct simulation. The highest Ra successfully simulated was 2.5 × 106. The problems at higher values of Ra are discussed and suggestions for improvements made.

Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Fluid Mechanics , Volume 158 , September 1985 , pp. 245 - 268
Copyright
© 1985 Cambridge University Press

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