Simulation of 2D wedge impacts on water using the SPH–ALE method

Prediction of the forces on pitching boat hulls is a subtle issue, since the underlying phenomena are highly dynamic and unsteady. The solution of a full 3D model of the hull is possible, but comes with a high computational cost; alternatively, it might be simpler to assume the hull as consecutive 2D slices. The traditional CFD approach, with mesh-based algorithms, introduces additional complexity due to mesh motion and interface tracking. By adopting a Lagrangian point of view, the computational algorithm would be substantially simpler, since free surface and moving geometries would be handled easily. In the current work, the smoothed particle hydrodynamics meshless method is used within an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian framework (SPH–ALE), in order to predict the force and motion of a wedge during high-velocity water entry. Various impacts have been simulated, using wedges of different shapes and masses. Two methods of particle refinement have also been examined, in order to increase the accuracy near the point of impact. Results of the method are compared with experimental and numerical results from literature, showing good agreement.