Volume tracking of interfaces having surface tension in two and three dimensions
Abstract
Solution algorithms are presented for tracking interfaces with piecewise linear (PLJQ volume-of-fluid (VOF) methods on Eulerian grids (structured and unstructured) in two and three dimensions. We review the theory of volume tracking methods, derive appropriate volume evolution equations, identify and present solutions to the basic geometric functions needed for interface reconstruction and volume fluxing, and provide algorithm templates for modern 2-D and 3-D FLIC VOF interface tracking methods. We discuss some key issues for PLJC VOF methods, namely the method used for time integration of fluid volumes (operator splitting, unsplit, Runge-Kutta, etc.) and the estimation of interface normals. We also present our latest developments in the continuum surface force (CSF) model for surface tension, namely extension to 3-D and variable surface tension effects. We identify and focus on CSF model issues that become especially critical on fine meshes with high density ratio interfacial flows, namely the surface delta function approximation, the approximation of interfacial curvature, and the continuum surface force scaling with smoothing model. Numerical results in two and three dimensions are presented to illustrate our findings.
Publication Title
34th Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit
Recommended Citation
Kothe, D., Rider, W., Mosso, S., Brock, J., & Hochstein, J. (1996). Volume tracking of interfaces having surface tension in two and three dimensions. 34th Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.memphis.edu/facpubs/15085
