The Basic k-ϵ Model and a New Model Based on General Statistical Descriptions of Anisotropic Inhomogeneous Turbulence Compared with DNS of Channel Flow at High Reynolds Number

Abstract

Predictions are presented of mean values of statistical variables of large-scale turbulent flow of the widely used basic k-ϵ model, and of a new model, which is based on general statistical descriptions of turbulence. The predictions are verified against published results of direct numerical simulations (DNSs) of Navier–Stokes equations. The verification concerns turbulent channel flow at shear Reynolds numbers of 950, 2000, and 104. The basic k-ϵ model is largely based on empirical formulations accompanied by calibration constants. This contrasts with the new model, where descriptions of leading statistical quantities are based on the general principles of statistical turbulence at a large Reynolds number and stochastic theory. Predicted values of major output variables such as turbulent viscosity, diffusivity of passive admixture, temperature, and fluid velocities compare well with DNS for the new model. Significant differences are seen for the basic k-ϵ model.