Numerical modeling of the generation of internal waves by uniform stratified flow over a thin vertical barrier
Numerical simulations of two-dimensional stratified flow past an obstacle (thin vertical strip) were performed at relatively low Reynolds numbers. A finite differences solver was adopted to simultaneously solve NavierStokes equations together with transport equations for salinity (stratifying agent), and the standard Smagorinsky turbulent closure scheme was called in whenever necessary to account for turbulence. The emphases were on the evaluation of code for unsteady stratified flow applications as well as identification of transient and steady internal-wave processes during flow past obstacles. Simulations were compared with laboratory experiments, where observations were made using a high resolution Schlieren technique and conductivity probes. Blocking was observed upstream of the obstacle, surrounded by near-zero frequency internal waves, the phase lines of which joined those of lee waves through a transition zone in the proximity of the obstacle. This pattern was preceded by initial transients of the starting flow in which propagating internal waves played a dominant role. Confluence of isopycnals passing over/under the obstacle in the wake led to interesting flow phenomena, including the radiation of internal waves. The numerical simulations were in good agreement with observations, except that some phenomena could not be captured due to resolution issues of either numerical or experimental techniques. The efficacy of the code in point for stratified flow calculations with relevance to the atmosphere and oceans was confirmed. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
internal waves stratified flows wakes computational fluid dynamics large eddy simulations comparison with experiment