CFD analysis of the loss coefficient for a 90° bend in rolling motion

The local loss coefficient for a 90° bend in rolling motion is investigated with CFD code FLUENT. The calculation results are validated with experimental and theoretical results in steady state. The effect of spanwise and transverse additional forces on the bend loss is significant. The effects of additional forces on the bend loss are mainly embodied in the downstream section. The oscillation of bend loss caused by the spanwise and transverse additional forces is very regular while that caused by velocity oscillation is very irregular. The effect of velocity oscillation on the bend loss is significant in rolling motion with low Reynolds number. But the variation of bend loss coefficient with velocity oscillating period is very limited.

► The local loss coefficient for a 90° bend in rolling motion is investigated. ► The effect of spanwise and transverse additional forces on the bend loss is significant. ► The oscillation of bend loss caused by the velocity oscillation is very irregular. ► Effect of velocity oscillation on the bend loss is obvious in low Reynolds number.