Turbulence modeling in combined convection in mercury pipe flow

Abstract

A simplified Algebraic Stress Model was used to investigate the effect of buoyancy on the mean and turbulent flow of mercury in a pipe. The Patankar and Spalding finite difference method was used for solving the governing parabolic flow equations. Results were compared with previous measurements covering a Ra Re2 range from near zero to 10-4 for 30,000 < Re < 90,000 and qualitatively predicted observed distortions. Temperature fluctuations were measured to supplement previous experiments in the near-wall region. Heating effects on turbulent energy and momentum transfer were predicted. Modeling also confirmed measured reversal of the turbulent axial flux. © 1985.