Some important Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) applications and flow
solvers are strongly influenced by the effects of low Mach number and/or
high heat transfer rates. The present study focuses on the validation of
a new flow solver over a range of Mach numbers and heat transfer rates of
practical interest. The validation study addresses both algorithm
performance via convergence rate and accuracy via comparisons with an
analytical similarity solution, for flow past a flat plate held at a
constant temperature. The ranges of flow conditions investigated in this
study are (0.1 <= Mref <= 3.0) and (0.1 <= Twall <= 10.0).
The algorithm has been found to converge well for most flow conditions
tested. Optimal convergence rate is more strongly influenced by choice of
time step in subsonic flows than in supersonic flows.
Validation comparisons show the algorithm to maintain a consistent and
acceptable level of accuracy for most tested flow speeds and wall
temperatures, with most deviations attributable to flow physics
constraints imposed by the theoretical result or to grid resolution. One
possible exception, where the outer range of capability of the present
algorithm may have been reached, is noted.
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