On simulating primary atomization using the refined level set grid method

To simulate primary atomization, one has to track the position of the phase interface accurately, handle large numbers of topology changes and drops, treat the singular force of surface tension in an accurate and stable manner, and ensure grid-independent numerical results. To address all of these challenges we present a balanced force Rened Level Set Grid (RLSG) method for collocated, unstructured nite volume ow solver grids that can be coupled to a Lagrangian spray model. Special emphasis is placed on the accurate treatment of surface tension forces, since during the atomization of liquid jets by coaxial fast-moving gas streams, the details of the formation of small-scale drops from aerodynamically stretched out ligaments are governed by capillary forces [1]. Several dierent generic verication examples are presented, discussing the accuracy, volume preservation, and grid-convergence properties of the balanced force RLSG method.