Numerical Study of Separated Flows in Backward Facing Step by Using Collocated Grid Arrangement

Abstract

The effects of Reynolds number and the inlet height ratio on separated flow over backward facing step are investigated. The flow field is studied numerically with different inlet height ratio. The laminar flow field is analyzed numerically by solving the steady, two-dimensional incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. A collocated (non-staggered) grid is used in the momentum equations, which discretized by finite volume method, SIMPLE algorithm is used to adjust the velocity field to satisfy the conservation of mass. The range of Reynolds number is (Re = 100 - 800). The results show that at low height ratio (h/H = 0.25) and high Reynolds number the flow separated along the top wall of the channel. Good agreement with the experimental data is obtained.