Testing a Generalized Two-Equation Turbulence Model for Computational Aerodynamics of a Mid-Range Aircraft

Abstract

The generalized k-ω formulation provides a relatively new flexible eddy-viscosity Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes modeling approach to turbulent flow simulation, where free coefficients allow for fine-tuning and optimal adjusting of the turbulence closure procedure. The present study addressed the calibration of this versatile model for the aerodynamic design of an innovative mid-range commercial airplane by carrying out a series of simulations for varying model coefficients. Comparing the different solutions with each other, as well as with reference experimental and higher-fidelity numerical data, the performance of the generalized procedure in predicting the aerodynamic loading on the aircraft model was systematically examined. While drawing particular attention to the high-lift regime, the set of model parameters giving the best results was practically determined.

Keywords

• computational aerodynamics
• Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes
• turbulence closure