Verification and validation of computational fluid dynamics simulations of compound channel

Abstract

In this study the verification and validation of a 2nd order turbulence closure model is performed for an experimental compound channel flow, where the velocity field was measured by a Laser Doppler Velocimeter. Detailed Explicit Algebraic Reynolds Stress Model (EARSM) simulation is reported. The Grid Convergence Index (GCI) approach proposed by Roache (1998) was adopted to evaluate the uncertainty associated to grid resolution. The velocity components, the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and the dissipation rate were used as variables of interest. The GCI results present low values for the streamwise velocity, TKE and dissipation rate, but higher values in what concerns vertical and spanwise velocities. This indicates that the mean primary flow has converged but the secondary flow field still depends on grid resolution. Based on GCI values distribution, the mesh was locally refined. Comparison of numerical and experimental results shows good agreement