Impact of turbulence modeling on numerical accuracy and efficiency of compressible flow simulations

Discussed is the numerical implementation of turbulence models used in viscous compressible flow simulations and their performance described with respect to numerical accuracy, efficiency and stability. The basic approach utilizes the Reynolds-averaged compressible Navier-Stokes equations in which the Reynolds stresses and heat fluxes are mathematically modeled by suitable turbulence models. The turbulence models investigated include zero-, one-, and two-equation eddy viscosity models. The flow fields investigated include theoretical and supersonic flows about two-dimensional and axisymmetric bodies. Discussions concerning the numerical implementation of models include differencing procedures and boundary conditions used to assume numerical stability and accuracy. Numerical performance is also evaluated by comparing computations with experimental results