Rans-based turbulence modeling of taylor–couette flow: Simulation of vortex formation using the geko model
Keywords:
Mathematical modeling, GEKO turbulence models, Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations, Ansys fluentAbstract
This study presents a numerical investigation of Taylor–Couette flow using the ANSYS Fluent computational fluid dynamics (CFD) platform. The analysis focuses on the formation, stability, and evolution of vortex structures generated in the annular region between coaxial cylinders due to the rotation of the inner cylinder. Turbulence is modeled using the Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) approach coupled with the Generalized k–ω (GEKO) turbulence model, which provides enhanced flexibility for simulating complex swirling and shear-driven flows. The simulation results successfully capture the onset and development of Taylor vortices as the rotational speed increases. Characteristic vortex cells, secondary flow patterns, and transitions toward more complex flow structures are observed, consistent with classical Taylor–Couette behavior. The results demonstrate that the GEKO model effectively represents flows influenced by curvature effects, centrifugal instabilities, and enhanced mixing. These findings contribute to a better understanding of hydrodynamic stability and have practical implications for engineering and environmental applications, including mixing enhancement, heat and mass transfer optimization, energy-efficient reactor design, and water management systems in agroecological environments.
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