Improving separated-flow predictions using an anisotropy-capturing subgrid-scale model

Abstract The major conclusion of this paper is that resolution requirements for large-eddy simulation (LES) of flow separation and reattachment can be significantly reduced using the anisotropy-capturing explicit algebraic subgrid-scale (SGS) stress model (EASSM) of Marstorp et al.  ( J. Fluid Mech. , vol. 639, 2009, pp. 403–432), instead of the conventional isotropic dynamic eddy-viscosity model (DEVM). LES of flow separation in a channel with streamwise periodic hill-shaped constrictions and spanwise homogeneity is performed at coarse resolutions for which it is observed that flow separation cannot be predicted without a SGS model and cannot be correctly predicted by the DEVM, while reasonable predictions are obtained with the EASSM. It is shown that the lower resolution requirements by the EASSM, compared to the DEVM, is not only due its nonlinear formulation, but also due to the better formulation of its eddy-viscosity part. The improvements obtained with the EASSM have previously been demonstrated using higher-order numerical solvers for channel flows. In this study, it is observed that these improvements still remain using a low-order code with significant inherent numerical dissipation.