Selection of the Relevant Turbulence Model in a CFD Simulation of a Flow Disturbed by Hydraulic Elbow — Comparative Analysis of the Simulation with Measurements Results Obtained by the Ultrasonic Flowmeter

The article is an attempt to compile the results of CFD liquid flow simulation through pipeline section containing hydraulic elbow with the results of ultrasonic flow measurements. To carry out the measurements behind the flow disturbing element (hydraulic elbow), an ultrasonic flowmeter with applied head set in accordance with the Z-type system was used. For comparative purposes, a flow simulation for 3 different turbulence models (k-epsilon, SST and SSG) was performed. It was found that with a proper ultrasonic flowmeter heads configurations, it is possible to measure the flow rate disturbed by the hydraulic elbow at any distance from the source of the disturbance. It has to use appropriate correction factor that can be determined by knowing the flow velocity profile equation. Based on comparison of CFD simulation results with experimental data, the accuracy/ purposefulness of using individual turbulence models in the case of discussed hydraulic installation was evaluated.