Comparison of 2D model and 3D model with periodic boundary condition using k-epsilon realizable solver
Hypothesis and Goals
Periodic boundary condition was applied to both side walls of the flocculation tank, imposing transitional repeating pattern of flow across the z direction in 3D model and zero pressure gradient. Thus all the results from 2D model are expected to be duplicated in the x-y plane in this 3D model with periodic boundary condition.
This is part of the preliminary simulation experiments extending the current 2D models into 3D, providing an intuitive illustration of the underlying simplifications of 2D models.
Methods and Procedures
Periodic boundary condition needs to be defined in text command interface as opposed to other common boundary conditions. Click here for a detailed description of each step, and here for the report summary containing all modeling parameters.
Results and Discussion
The results from 2D model was successfully duplicated in x-y plane of the 3D model with periodic boundary conditions. A comparison of the energy dissipation contour is shown below.