Generation of a turbulent boundary layer inflow for RANS simulations

The generation of a fully turbulent boundary layer profile is investigated using analytical and numerical methods over the Reynolds number range 300 ≤ Reθ ≤ 31000. The predictions are validated against reference wind tunnel measurements under zero streamwise pressure gradient. The analytical method is then tested for favourable pressure gradient by modelling the turbulent boundary layer approaching a two-dimensional potential sink. Both methods show a good predictive ability under a zero pressure gradient, with the numerical method providing a complete velocity profile through the laminar sub-layer down to the wall. This work is of practical interest to computational fluid dynamic practitioners for generating an equilibrium thick turbulent boundary layer at the computational domain inflow. Copyright © 2009 by A. Rona.