On the Turbulence-Modeling Requirements of Three-Dimensional Boundary-Layer Flows

Summary

Appropriate three-dimensional equations have been solved, in finite-difference form, and with boundary conditions corresponding to the infinite swept wing of van den Berg and Elsenaar and the full three-dimensional data of East and Hoxey. In the former case, results were obtained with an algebraic eddy-viscosity formulation and a two-equation model which allows for transport of turbulence kinetic energy and dissipation rate. The results show that both models yield similar mean-flow characteristics, provided the same wall boundary conditions are employed, and that these deviate from the measurements with increasing adverse pressure gradient. As with previous investigations of two-dimensional flows, the procedure used to generate the initial turbulence energy profile can significantly influence the calculated results. The calculations of the fully three-dimensional flow made use of the algebraic eddy-viscosity formulation and, in keeping with the previous results for two-dimensional flows and the swept wing, the agreement with measurements is excellent until the separation region is approached.