USING A THREE-EQUATION MODEL FOR PIPE FLOW WITH HEAT TRANSFER

This study is aimed at evaluating a three-equation average turbulence model applied to flow and heat transfer through a pipe. Uncertainty is approximated by comparing with published direct numerical simulation results for fully developed pipe flow. The model is based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations. The Boussinesq hypothesis is invoked for determining the Reynolds stresses. The solution is obtained for three local length scales based on which the eddy viscosity is calculated. There are only two constants in the model: one accounts for the surface roughness and the other is possibly attributed to the fluid. Error in the mean axial velocity, wall temperature, friction, and heat transfer is found to be negligible.