Evaluation of Turbulence Models in Predicting Hypersonic and Subsonic Base Flows Using Grid Adaptation Techniques

Abstract

The flows behind the base of a generic rocket, at both hypersonic and subsonic flow conditions, are numerically studied. The main concerns are addressed to the evaluation of turbulence models and the using of grid adaptation techniques. The investigation focuses on two configurations, related to hypersonic and subsonic experiments. The applicability tests of different turbulence models are conducted on the level of two-equation models calculating the steady state solution of the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes(RANS) equations. All used models, the original Wilcox k-omega, the Menter shear-stress transport (SST) and the explicit algebraic Reynolds stress model(EARSM) formulation, predict an asymmetric base flow in both cases caused by the support of the models. A comparison with preliminary experimental results indicates a preference for the SST and EARSM results over the results from the older k-omega model. Sensitivity studies show no significant influence of the grid topology or the location of the laminar to turbulent transition on the base flow field, but a strong influence of even small angles of attack is reported from the related experiments.