The k-$\omega$ Shear-Stress Transport (SST) Turbulence Model

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the mathematical formulations of the turbulent kinetic energy k and specific dissipation rate $\omega$ Shear-Stress Transport (SST) turbulence model proposed by Menter [3, 4] to provide a closure model to the Boussinesq-type counterparts of the new hypothesis on the anisotropic Reynolds stress tensor discussed in Chap. 5. The k-$\omega$ SST closure model of Menter [3, 4] is relying on the generalised Boussinesq hypothesis on the Reynolds stress tensor (1.113) with a modification to the definition of the scalar eddy viscosity coefficient. In other words, the k-$\omega$ SST turbulence model assumes that the Reynolds stress tensor (1.54) is related to the mean rate-of-strain (deformation) tensor (1.114) and the turbulent kinetic energy k defined by Eq. (1.63). The reason for the choice of the k-$\omega$ SST model as a baseline closure model is that it is a well-known fact that the k-$\omega$ SST formulation of Menter [3, 4] is validated against many industrially relevant turbulent flow problems with great success [5]. It is also assumed that the k-$\omega$ SST turbulence model can capture the shear stress distribution correctly in the boundary layer and it is applicable to adverse pressure gradient flows [6]. However, it is important to highlight from theoretical and practical aspects that any other existing eddy viscosity closure model can be employed in conjunction with the Boussinesq-type counterparts of the new hypothesis on the anisotropic Reynolds stress tensor proposed in Chap. 5.

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