Turbulence characteristics in a Rushton stirring vessel: A numerical investigation

Abstract

Results from simulations using FLUENT (a commercial CFD package) are compared with Time Resolved Digital Particle Image Velocimetry (DPIV) for baseline configurations in order to validate and verify the fidelity of the computations. Different turbulent models are used in this study in order to determine which one is the most appropriate. Subsequently a parametric analysis of the flow characteristics as a function of the clearance height of the impeller from the vessel floor is performed. Results are presented along planes normal and parallel to the impeller axis, displaying velocity vector fields and contour plots of vorticity turbulent dissipation and others. Special attention is focused in the neighborhood of the impeller region and the radial jet generated there. The present results provide useful information for the design of the mixing process as well as for more accurate estimations in future work. Copyright © 2006 by ASME.