A Non-Symmetrical Swirling Jet as an Example of a Completely Described Assessment Experiment

The standard of a completely described experiment for CFD validation is demonstrated by using experimental and numerical models of swirling jets as an example. The experiment is designed to contain relevant physics (e.g. swirl) but without regard for generality or direct scaling to realistic geometries. Also, the design allows for direct measurement of the inflow (mean and statistics). The swirling jets experience vortex breakdown, have non-symmetric inlet profiles, and have Reynolds numbers of 3650, 2560, and 550 with Rossby numbers of 0.63, 0.59, and 0.73 respectively. The two larger Re cases resulted in turbulent flow inside the jet conduit upstream. All of the jets became turbulent rapidly after leaving the exit. It is demonstrated that the numerical simulations will provide more accurate results when the inlet conditions of these non-symmetric swirling jets are fully described.© 2009 ASME