Computation of a leading-edge film cooling flow over an experimental geometry

Computations are performed to simulate a leading edge film cooling flow over an experimental test geometry. An in-house CFD-heat transfer code based on a pressure correction algorithm is used for the computations. The code allows the use of multiple blocks in the domain with discontinuous grid lines while maintaining flux conservation at block interfaces. A second-order TVD-based controlled variation scheme (CVS) is used for discretization, along with k-ε models with options of using wall functions or low-Reynolds number modifications. From the viewpoint of incorporating CFD into the design process with fast turn-around times, the approach taken in this study is to attempt to simulate the key features of the flowfield with a reasonable grid size, preferably consisting of no more than 250,000 grid points. In order to attain the desired accuracy with these constraints, effective combinations of grid distribution, discretization operators and turbulence models are investigated, and the sensitivity of the computed solution to these factors examined. The results agree qualitatively with the experimental data though some notable quantitative differences can be observed. An attempt is made to explain the key features of the flowfield resulting from the interaction of coolant jets with the hot fleestream.