Journal of Vibration and Sound

Journal of Vibration and Sound

Performance Assessment of RANS Turbulence Models for Vortex Dynamics in Oscillating Airfoil Flows

Document Type : research article

Author
Hamidreza Kaviani
Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department. Malayer University
Abstract
Airfoils are widely used in various industries and often experience oscillatory motion during operation. Developing a method to accurately and cost-effectively model turbulent flow around these airfoils remains a challenge in computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This study examines the capability of different models to predict vortex behavior in Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations. The research employs well-established models, including Spalart-Allmaras, k-ω SST, IDDES, and the new GEKO (Generalized K-Omega) model. The study begins with a static flow simulation around an S-809 airfoil at 20° angle of attack. Validation using wind tunnel data demonstrates the superior performance of the GEKO model. The GEKO model's separation coefficient was calibrated to enhance computational accuracy. Results indicate that a separation coefficient of 2.5 provides the optimal estimation for aerodynamic coefficients under stall conditions. The calibrated model was then applied to predict dynamic stall flow around the oscillating S-809 airfoil. Findings reveal that as the oscillation frequency increases from 0.61 Hz to 1.83 Hz: 1- The difference in Cl coefficient between upstroke and downstroke increases by approximately 60%, and 2- The sound pressure level shows a corresponding increase, with OASPL rising by about 2.55 dB. In conclusion, it can be said that the Gecko model with coefficient calibration capability can be a suitable option for solving flow in oscillatory physics.
Keywords
Aeroacoustics
Airfoil
Aerodynamic Hysteresis
GEKO model
Subjects
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