A CFD Analysis of the Air Flow Characteristics at an Inflow Opening

Abstract In the present study, a numerical simulation to simulate an experiment for evaluating the cross-ventilation performance at an inflow opening by using Large Eddy Simulation (LES), the standard k-ε model, and Durbin‘s k-ε model was performed. Results showed that too much turbulent kinetic energy was produced at the leeward opening frame in the standard k-ɛ model. However, Durbin‘s k-ε model improved this defect, and reproduced the wind tunnel results fairly well, as did the LES approach. Following on from this comparison, Durbin’s k-ε model was applied to the analysis of the air flow characteristics from the viewpoint of aspect ratio, opening thickness, and whether a louver was present or not. From the results it was concluded that static pressure increase was induced by the collision of the inflowing air with the leeward opening frame. This static increase caused a decrease in the discharge coefficient. There was little influence on the cross-ventilation flow rate when the louver angle was perpendicular to the opening surface and when it was installed on the inside of the opening.