New space-averaging procedure for inhomogeneous flow fields using balance equation formulations

Abstract

This paper features the possibility of averaging space-dependent flow fields using a coupling factor that links the equations of momentum and energy. The scheme is applied to the mean velocity, which is derived straightforwardly through the continuity equation. It creates a small imbalance, which can be eliminated later completely. Smaller discrepancies in the integration of systems of balance equations for inhomogeneous flow are the consequence. The procedure is verified on various flow patterns, and comparisons are made with other conventional methods and with some available experimental data. Despite investigating only numerical examples of incompressible flows here, the technique, in principle, is capable of dealing with compressible flows as well. Furthermore, the proposed method discards some variables required in other techniques while still providing useful and acceptable results for practical problems.