Numerical simulation of turbulent free surface flow over obstruction

A two-dimensional hybrid numerical model, FEM-LES-VOF, for free surface flows is proposed in this study, which is a combination of three-step Taylor-Galerkin finite element method, large eddy simulation with the Smagorinsky sub-grid model and Computational Lagrangian-Eulerian Advection Remap Volume of Fluid (CLEAR-VOF) method. The present FEM-LES-VOF model allows the fluid flows involving violent free surface and turbulence subject to complex boundary configuration to be simulated in a straightforward manner with unstructured grids in the context of finite element method. Numerical simulation of a benchmark problem of dam breaking is conducted to verify the present model. Comparisons with experimental data show that the proposed model works well and is capable of producing reliable predictions for free surface flows. Using the FEM-LES-VOF model, the free surface flow over a semi-circular obstruction is investigated. The simulation results are compared with available experimental and numerical results. Good performance of the FEM-LES-VOF model is demonstrated again. Moreover, the numerical studies show that the turbulence plays an important role in the evolution of free surface when the reflected wave propagates upstream during the fluid flow passing the submerged obstacle.