Evaluation of subgrid scale kinetic energy models in large eddy simulations of turbulent channel flow

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of different subgrid kinetic energy models across a range of Reynolds numbers while keeping the grid constant.

Design/methodology/approach

A dynamic subgrid kinetic energy model, a static coefficient kinetic energy model, and a “no‐model” method are compared with direct numerical simulation (DNS) data at two friction Reynolds numbers of 180 and 590 for turbulent channel flow.

Findings

Results indicate that, at lower Reynolds numbers, the dynamic model more closely matches DNS data. As the amount of energy in the unresolved scales increases, the performance of both kinetic energy models is seen to decrease.

Originality/value

This paper provides guidance to engineers who routinely use a single grid to study a wide range of flow conditions (i.e. Reynolds numbers), and what level of accuracy can be expected by using kinetic energy models for large eddy simulations.

Citation

Winkler, C.M. and Rani, S.L. (2006), "Evaluation of subgrid scale kinetic energy models in large eddy simulations of turbulent channel flow", International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 226-239. https://doi.org/10.1108/09615530610644280