Effect of Rheology for Flow past a Bottom Rack

This paper presents the numerical simulation of flow past a bottom rack using CFD software, Flow-3D. The governing equations for fluid flow are the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations (RANS) along with the volume of fluid (VOF) equation for surface tracking. In addition, the renormalized group (RNG) turbulence model is also used. The numerical model is validated by comparing with experimental results for pressure and velocity profile available in the literature. Results for free surface profile and velocity profile are also presented. Five different fluids are considered to study the effect of rheology on discharge characteristics of the bottom rack. As indicated in the simulations, viscosity is the dominating factor influencing the discharge through the bottom rack. Density also has an impact on the discharge characteristics. Based on the cases studied, recommendations for the size of the bottom rack, considering rheological characteristics of the fluid, are made.