Wall-Modeled Large-Eddy Simulation Method for Unstructured-Grid Navier–Stokes Solvers

This paper reports on the implementation and assessment of a wall-modeled large-eddy simulation (WMLES) methodology in an unstructured-grid, node-centered flow solver, FUN3D, that is developed and supported at the NASA Langley Research Center. Finite-volume (FV) and finite-element (FE) discretization schemes considered in the study provide formal second-order spatial accuracy. Large-eddy simulations (LES) resolve large-scale turbulent-flow features, and small-scale effects are modeled using the Vreman subgrid-scale model. At solid-wall boundaries, a shear-stress model is employed to provide a proper boundary-flux closure. The nonlinear equations are integrated in time using either an optimized backward difference formula or an implicit multistage Runge–Kutta temporal scheme. The implicit equations at each time step are solved by strong nonlinear iteration schemes. WMLES demonstrations are shown for two high-lift configurations, namely, the McDonnell Douglas 30P30N multi-element airfoil and a NASA High-Lift Common Research Model. Results show that the WMLES approaches implemented in the FV and FE discretization methods produce consistent solutions and are capable of capturing key aerodynamic characteristics and flow structures for high-lift configurations at a wide range of angles of attack, including maximum-lift conditions. In the 30P30N example, correct trends in the variations of integrated aerodynamic forces and moments, surface pressure distributions, and boundary-layer profiles are captured as the Reynolds number is increased.