The SST k-omega turbulence model is a two-equation eddy-viscosity model that is used for many aerodynamic applications. It is a hybrid model combining the Wilcox k-omega and the k-epsilon models. A blending function, F1, activates the Wilcox model near the wall and the k-epsilon model in the free stream. This ensures that the appropriate model is utilized throughout the flow field:
- The k-omega model is well suited for simulating flow in the viscous sub-layer.
- The k-epsilon model is ideal for predicting flow behavior in regions away from the wall.
SST k-omega Governing Equations
Turbulence Kinetic Energy
Specific Dissipation Rate
F1 (Blending Function)
CDkw
Kinematic eddy viscosity
F2 (second blending function)
P K(Production limiter)
SST k-omega RC Models
In the Smirnov-Mentor Rotation/Curvature form of the SST model, the production term, P, is multiplied by the function:
where:
The remaining functions are defined as:
In the Hellsten simplified Rotation/Curvature form of the SST model, the destruction term is multiplied by the following function:
where:
Additional notes about SST k-omega
- The SST models exhibit less sensitivity to free stream conditions (flow outside the boundary layer) than many other turbulence models.
- The shear stress limiter helps the k-omega model avoid a build-up of excessive turbulent kinetic energy near stagnation points.
- The SST models provide a platform for additional extensions such as SAS and laminar-turbulence transition.
Advanced Parameters
The Advanced Turbulence Parameters dialog contains additional options for the K-omega model:
Intelligent Wall Formulation
The Intelligent Wall Formulation reduces the sensitivity of results to the level of mesh refinement along the wall. It is enabled by default for SST k-omega.
Far-field TKE and Far-field omega
These terms define the boundary condition values for turbulence intensity and omega.
Note that L is the approximate domain length.
The resultant free-stream turbulent viscosity (from a combination of these two values) should be between 10-5 and 10-2 times the free-stream laminar viscosity.