On nonlinear K-l and K-ε models of turbulence

Abstract

The commonly used linear K-l and K-ε models of turbulence are shown to be incapable of accurately predicting turbulent flows where the normal Reynolds stresses play an important role. By means of an asymptotic expansion, nonlinear K-l and K-ε models are obtained which, unlike all such previous nonlinear models, satisfy both realizability and the necessary invariance requirements. Calculations are presented which demonstrate that this nonlinear model is able to predict the normal Reynolds stresses in turbulent channel flow much more accurately than the linear model. Furthermore, the nonlinear model is shown to be capable of predicting turbulent secondary flows in non-circular ducts - a phenomenon which the linear models are fundamentally unable to describe. An additional application of this model to the improved prediction of separated flows is discussed briefly along with other possible avenues of future research.