Assessment of anisotropic minimum-dissipation (AMD) subgrid-scale model: Gently-curved backward-facing step flow

The impetus of this study is to evaluate the performance of the anisotropic minimum-dissipation (AMD) subgrid-scale model (SGS) for flow over a gently-curved backward-facing step (BFS) at a Reynolds number of 13 700. Minimum-dissipation sub-grid models were developed as simple alternatives to the dynamic eddy-viscosity SGS models. AMD model is a static type of eddy-viscosity SGS model incorporating anisotropic SGS effects into numerical predictions through the large-eddy simulation (LES) approach. The open-source CFD package of OpenFOAM was used to implement the AMD model. Before focusing on the BFS flow, we investigated the impact of the AMD model coefficient magnitude on the numerical predictions of the decaying isotropic turbulence flow. In the next step, numerical solutions were obtained for the curved backward-facing step using the AMD model and Dynamic Smagorinsky model (DSM). The curved backward-facing step was considered here for the evaluation of the SGS model predictions due to its weak adverse pressure gradient and high sensitive flow mechanism. The rescaling/recycling method was employed as a turbulent inflow generation technique. The AMD model results were compared with the prediction of the DSM and Vreman model. Moreover, AMD model predictions were compared with the reported solutions obtained using different turbulent inflow generation methods. The assessments revealed the high capability of the AMD model to capture decaying turbulence and predict velocity profiles and resolved flow statistics turbulent parameters in the gently-curved backward step flow.