Prediction Capability of Cartesian Cut-Cell Method with a Wall-Stress Model Applied to High Reynolds Number Flows

Abstract

The Cartesian cut-cell method is one of the most promising methods for computational fluid dynamics due to its sharp interface treatment. However, the Cartesian cut-cell method and other Cartesian mesh solvers have difficulty with concentrating grid to boundary layers. The wall-modelling of shear stress is one of the most effective methods to reduce computational grids in boundary layers. This study investigated the applicability of a wall-stress model to the Cartesian cut-cell method. In the numerical simulations of the flow around a triangular column, Cartesian cut-cell simulation with the wall-stress model adequately predicted the drag coefficient. In the numerical simulations of the flow around a 30P30N high-lift airfoil configuration, the Cartesian cut-cell simulation with the wall-stress model adequately predicts the lift coefficient. The intermittent vortex structure of the outer layer of the turbulent boundary layer was observed on the suction side of the main element and the flap. The Cartesian cut-cell method with a wall-stress model is useful for predicting high Reynolds number flows at R e ∼ 10 6 .

Keywords

• cartesian cut-cell method
• wall model
• aerodynamic force
• computational fluid dynamics