Lattice Boltzmann simulation of high Reynolds number fluid flow in two dimensions

Lattice Boltzmann models are used to simulate high Reynolds number fluid flow in two dimensions. These models employ the hexagonal symmetry of the FHP lattice gas models, but dispense with the Fermi restriction on particle populations in order to remedy the lattice gas defects arising from the lack of Galilean in variance. Comparisons are made with a finite difference code in the simulation of a doubly periodic two dimensional jet at Reynolds numbers up to 10,000. The lattice Boltzmann and finite difference codes are seen to agree qualitatively as judged by differences of less than 1% in the kinetic energy dissipated by the flow after two circulation times when smooth transition zones between counterstreaming flows are imposed. For sharp transition zones, however, qualitatively different vorticity patterns appear. Lattice Boltzmann models using fully nonlinear and linearized collision operators are described, and results from these models are found to be in good agreement.