Title: Implementation of a new actuator disc model based on BEM theory in SU2 CFD software

Authors: Kaan Yenipazar; Dilek Funda Kurtuluş

Addresses: SimScale GmbH, Ridlerstr. 31b D-80339 Munich, Germany ' Aerospace Engineering Department, Middle East Technical University, Ankara 06800, Turkey

Abstract: The aim of the current study is to develop an alternative actuator disc model in the SU2 (Stanford University Unstructured) software using the blade element theory (BEM) approach. The objective is to reduce computational costs and save time with accurate results. The integrated model has applications in optimising rotating components such as propellers, wind turbines, axial turbines, etc., as well as accurately predicting wake structures. The new actuator disc model proposed in this study is a steady-state model that assumes an infinite number of blades within the disc domain, making it applicable to varying flow conditions, such as the forward flight of helicopters or aircraft experiencing an angle of attack. The new model was validated by comparing it with experimental data and another high-fidelity tool, which is the rotating frame approach. These comparisons demonstrated that the new model performs accurately and can be a better option than the rotating frame.

Keywords: SU2; blade element theory; BEM; computational fluid dynamics; CFD; actuator disc; propeller; wind turbine; impeller.

DOI: 10.1504/PCFD.2024.142052

Progress in Computational Fluid Dynamics, An International Journal, 2024 Vol.24 No.6, pp.315 - 332

Received: 11 Jul 2023
Accepted: 25 Feb 2024
Published online: 07 Oct 2024 *

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