Computational Analysis of Different Turbulence Models in a Vane Pump Simulation

Abstract

The study presents a computational analysis of a vane pump using two different turbulence models namely κ-ε and κ-ω. The geometry characteristics of the vane pump were obtained by disassembly and further measurements. The CAD model for the computational domain was developed in SOLIDWORKS®. The CFD modeling was powered by ANSYS®, which allowed the evaluation of different mesh types and turbulence models . A total set of six simulations were performed to obtain comparison schemes for turbulence model evaluation . Specifically , the angular velocity and excentricity were varied within the simulations . Both turbulence models were carefully validated using the manufacturer´s dataset as validation criteria, obtaining a relative error of less than 5%. The κ-ω experienced the best performance when describing the flow variables, excepting the pressure gradient . Specifically , the κ-ω presented an accurate prediction of edge effects , energy losses in the walls, and turbulent viscosity . Notably , the CFD modeling showed that density and velocity variations are not significant. Overall, CFD modeling demonstrated to be a robust tool to gain insight understanding of the flow interactions in vane pump operation.