Large eddy simulation of transition of free convection flow over an inclined upward facing heated plate

Transition of free convection flow of air over an inclined heated surface is investigated numerically by using a large eddy simulation method. In particular, we focus on how inclination angle of an upward-facing heated plate affects flow transition. Special attention is paid to the development of the thermal boundary layer and the transition from the laminar to turbulent stage. Results show that the transition occurs early when the plate is moved from its vertical position due to the rapid growth of both the velocity and thermal boundary layers. As a consequence, the critical Grashof number drops. Effects of the inclination of plate on the turbulent velocity fluctuations are also investigated, and the predicted results are in very good agreement with various experimental data available in the literature. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.