Computational analysis of convective heat transfer properties of turbulent slot jet impingement

Purpose Convective heat transfer features of a turbulent slot jet impingement are comprehensively studied using two different computational approaches, namely, URANS (unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations) and SAS (scale-adaptive simulation). Turbulent slot jet impingement heat transfer is used where a considerable heat transfer enhancement is required, and computationally, it is a quite challenging flow configuration. Design/methodology/approach Customized OpenFOAM 4.1, an open-access computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, is used for SAS (SST-SAS k-omega) and URANS (standard k-epsilon and SST k-omega) computations. A low-Re version of the standard k-epsilon model is used, and other models are formulated for good wall-refined calculations. Three turbulence models are formulated in OpenFOAM 4.1 with second-order accurate discretization schemes. Findings It is observed that the profiles of the streamwise turbulence are under-predicted at all the streamwise locations by SST k-omega and SST SAS k-omega models, but follow similar trends as in the reported results. The standard k-epsilon model shows improvements in the predictions of the streamwise turbulence and mean streamwise velocity profiles in the zone of outer wall jet. Computed profiles of Nusselt number by SST k-omega and SST-SAS k-omega models are nearly identical and match well with the reported experimental results. However, the standard k-epsilon model does not provide a reasonable profile or quantification of the local Nusselt number. Originality/value Hybrid turbulence model is suitable for efficient CFD computations for the complex flow problems. This paper deals with a detailed comparison of the SAS model with URANS and LES for the first time in the literature. A thorough assessment of the computations is performed against the results reported using experimental and large eddy simulations techniques followed by a detailed discussion on flow physics. The present results are beneficial for scientists working with hybrid turbulence models and in industries working with high-efficiency cooling/heating system computations.