Reynolds number calculation and applications for curved wall jets

Abstract

The current paper refers to the preliminary estimation of the Reynolds number for curved wall jets. This, in turn, can be a useful tool for controlling the boundary layer mesh size near a generic curved wall which is wetted by a thin, attached jet. The method relies on analytical calculations that link the local curvature of the wall with the pressure gradient and further, the local Reynolds number. Knowing the local Reynolds number distribution, a CFD user can tailor their mesh size to more exact specifications (e.g. y+=1 for k-omega RANS models) and lower the risk that the mesh is too coarse or finer than necessary.

Keywords

• Coanda effect
• supercirculation
• y+
• meshing
• circulation control