Large eddy simulation of turbulent flows in external flow field using three-step FEM–BEM model

An innovative computational model is presented for the large eddy simulation (LES) modeling of multi-dimensional unsteady turbulent flow problems in external flow field. Based on the LES principles, the model uses a pressure projection method to solve the Navier–Stokes equations in transient condition. The turbulent motion is simulated by Smagorinsky sub-grid scale (SGS) eddy viscosity model. The momentum equation of the flow motion is solved using a three-step finite element method (FEM). The external flow field is simulated using a boundary element method (BEM) by solving a pressure Poisson equation that assumes the pressure as zero at the infinity. Through extracting the boundary effects on a specified finite computational domain, the model is able to solve the infinite boundary value problems. The present model is used to simulate the flows past a two-dimensional square rib and a three-dimensional cube at high Reynolds number. The simulation results are found to be reasonable and comparable with other models available in the literature even for coarse meshes.