Hybrid Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes/Large-Eddy Simulation Models for Flow Around an Iced Wing

Alam, M. F., Thompson, D., & Walters, K. (2015). Hybrid Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes/Large-Eddy Simulation Models for Flow Around an Iced Wing. AIAA Journal of Aircraft. 52(1), 244-256. DOI:10.2514/1.C032678.

Abstract

This study evaluates the feasibility of applying a newly-developed Dynamic Hybrid RANS/LES (DHRL) modeling framework to predict the massively separated flow around a GLC-305 airfoil with a 22.5-minute, leading-edge glaze ice accretion. Three-dimensional numerical simulations were performed at Re = 3.5x106, M = 0.12, and α = 6°. Comparisons were made between experimental data and simulation results computed using two RANS models (Menter’s Shear Stress Transport (SST k-ω) and Spalart-Allmaras (S-A)) and two Hybrid RANS/LES (HRL) models (Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation (DDES) and the DHRL model). All models overpredicted the mean wall static pressures on the suction surface. Wall pressure predictions using by the RANS and DHRL exhibited qualitatively better agreement with experiments than did DDES predictions while the DHRL model produced the best agreement for the mean streamwise velocity profiles. Turbulent intensity profiles showed substantial mesh sensitivity for the DDES model simulations, while the DHRL model results qualitatively compared well with the experiment and exhibited only a small degree of mesh sensitivity. Unique to the DHRL simulations was the accurate prediction of the flow reattachment location. None of the RANS models predicted flow reattachment and the DDES model predicted a substantially delayed flow reattachment.