Evaluation of Turbulence Models Using Ansys Fluent Software: A Study on NACA 0012 Airfoil
This case study presents an analysis of turbulence modeling in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) using Ansys Fluent®, a fluid simulation software. . The study examines the aerodynamic performance of a NACA 0012 airfoil at a high angle of attack, employing three widely used turbulence models: k-ω SST, k-ε realizable, and GEKO. Through detailed simulations, the study evaluates the predictive capabilities of these models in capturing key flow phenomena such as boundary layer behavior, flow separation, and wake characteristics.
The results are analyzed in terms of lift and drag coefficients, velocity contours, and streamline patterns, providing a comparative understanding of the models' strengths, limitations, and trade-offs. This work serves as a comprehensive reference for engineers and researchers seeking to enhance their understanding of turbulence modeling techniques and their application in aerodynamic simulations.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the behavior of turbulence models by studying their role in simulating aerodynamic flows around a NACA 0012 airfoil, including lift, drag, and flow separation.
- Evaluate the performance of different turbulence models (e.g., k-ε, k-ω SST, or GEKO) and understand their assumptions, strengths, and limitations in capturing boundary layer behavior and wake flow characteristics.
- Learn the setup and validation process for simulating external aerodynamics in ANSYS Fluent, including defining boundary conditions, mesh refinement, and selecting turbulence models for accuracy and computational efficiency.
- Gain hands-on experience with post-processing techniques, including visualization of velocity fields, pressure distributions, turbulence intensity, and flow separation points.
- Develop insights into the practical applications of turbulence models, such as their use in designing aerodynamic components and optimizing airfoil performance under real-world conditions.
Applicable Courses
- Aerodynamics
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
- Fluid Mechanics
- Aerospace Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Engineering Software Training
Downloadable Content
- TurbulentModels_CaseStudy PDF
- Case and data files for 3 turbulence models (K-omega SST, K-epsilon, GEKO)
- Airfoil_mesh.msh
Related Resources
- https://www.ansys.com/academic/educators/education-resources/transonic-aerodynamics-of-naca-0012-airfoil-using-ansys-fluent
- https://www.ansys.com/academic/educators/education-resources/aerodynamic-characteristics-of-multiple-tandem-airfoils-in-ansys-fluent
- https://www.ansys.com/academic/educators/education-resources/aerodynamics-of-supercritical-airfoil-using-ansys-fluent-software