Boundary domain integral method for high Reynolds viscous fluid flows in complex planar geometries

The article presents new developments in boundary domain integral method (BDIM) for computation of viscous fluid flows, governed by the Navier-Stokes equations. The BDIM algorithm uses velocity-vorticity formulation and is based on Poisson velocity equation for flow kinematics. This results in accurate determination of boundary vorticity values, a crucial step in constructing an accurate numerical algorithm for computation of flows in complex geometries, i.e. geometries with sharp corners. The domain velocity computations are done by the segmentation technique using large segments. After solving the kinematics equation the vorticity transport equation is solved using macro-element approach. This enables the use of macro-element based diffusion-convection fundamental solution, a key factor in assuring accuracy of computations for high Reynolds value laminar flows. The versatility and accuracy of the proposed numerical algorithm is shown for several test problems, including the standard driven cavity together with the driven cavity flow in an L shaped cavity and flow in a Z shaped channel. The values of Reynolds number reach 10,000 for driven cavity and 7500 for L shaped driven cavity, whereas the Z shaped channel flow is computed up to Re = 400. The comparison of computational results shows that the developed algorithm is capable of accurate resolution of flow fields in complex geometries. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.