Computational modeling of the neutrally stratified atmospheric boundary layer flow using the standard k–ε turbulence model

A novel approach, which focuses on the Reynolds stress in computational simulations of the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) flow in an empty domain using the k–ε turbulence model, is presented. A numerical setup mimics the experiments carried out in the boundary layer wind tunnel for the rural, suburban, and urban terrain exposure. The method accounts for a decrease in turbulence parameters with height, as observed in full scale. In addition, the paper presents analysis which shows that the k–ε turbulence model is capable of modeling decreasing turbulence parameters with height and achieves satisfactory accuracy. It is supported with computational results which agree well with the experimental results. In particular, the difference between the calculated and measured mean velocity, turbulent kinetic energy and Reynolds stress profiles remains within ±10% in most parts of the computational domain.

► A novel approach in computational simulations of the ABL flow is presented.
► This method accounts for a decrease of Reynolds stress with height.
► A numerical setup mimics experiments carried out in the boundary layer wind tunnel.
► Calculated and measured results are within ±10% in most parts of the computational domain.