A Calculation Method for Developing Turbulent Flow in Rectangular Ducts of Arbitrary Aspect Ratio

Abstract

This paper describes a full Reynolds stress transport equation model for predicting developing turbulent flow in rectangular ducts. The pressure-strain component of the model is based on a modified form of the Launder, Reece and Rodi pressure-strain model and the use of a linear wall damping function. Predictions based on this model are compared with predictions referred to high Reynolds number and low Reynolds number k–ε transport equation models and with experimental data taken in square and rectangular ducts. The results indicate that the proposed model yields improved predictions of primary flow development and Reynolds stress behavior in a square duct. The proposed model also yields Reynolds stress anisotropy and secondary flow levels that are compatible and agree well with experiment, without recourse to a quadratic damping function to model near-wall pressure-strain behavior.