Two-equation turbulence modeling and particle image velocimetry measurements of helicopter engine bay cooling inlet flow

In this thesis, a k-&egr; turbulence model is presented in the context of a previously developed solver for multiphase flows. This new formulation was developed, in part, to quickly and accurately predict icing of helicopter engine bay cooling inlets. The turbulence equations are solved using a control-volume-based finite-element method. Special shape functions that prescribe the velocity profile in the near-wall region were developed. These shape functions are based on Reichardt's universal velocity profile, which may be used throughout the entire near wall region. A positivity scheme was developed that is based on physical principles and will not require ad-hoc "clipping". Proper implementation of the turbulence model is verified by simulating flow between parallel plates and flow over a backward-facing step. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) experiments of flow over scaled models of engine bay cooling inlets are presented. A boat was designed that enables the laser sheet to be projected through the free surface of the water tunnel. The spreading rates of the turbulent wakes downstream of two different scaled models were determined. It is anticipated that the new CFD solver will be able to accurately predict the icing of helicopter engine bay cooling inlets.