Homework - Flow Through a 90-degree Bend Pipe

Overview

Pipe is the most basic unit for fluid transportation systems. Though piping itself is basic, the flow inside a pipe can be complex, especially when the pipe bends. The radius and angle of the bend has significant impact on the flow structure near the bend. In this simulation we will model a turbulent flow through a 90-degree bend pipe. The model consists of a pipe with a 90-degree bend, with the radius equal to the diameter of the pipe, as shown. The fluid used in this simulation is air at room temperature and atmospheric pressure.

Objectives

The primary objective of this simulation example is to model the turbulent flow through a bent pipe and understand its flow structures, including the re-circulation vortex in the separation zone past the bend.

Setup

Download the Mesh file needed for setting up the simulation and the associated Case & Data files  here. Follow the instructions below to set up this simulation in Ansys Fluent starting with a Mesh file. In case you face any issues setting up or running the simulation, please refer to the corresponding initial and final Case and Data files.

Alternate video link.

Results and Discussion

Let us now analyze the simulation results and understand the physics of the 90-degree bend pipe.