Supersonic Waves Reflection in a Duct - Simulation Example

Overview

When a supersonic flow passes through a duct, the smallest deflection can have important effects on the fluid. Shock waves and expansion waves can form, leading to a complex pattern of wave interactions and reflections on the walls. In addition to this, the physics becomes even more complex if we also take into consideration the viscosity of the fluid. In this example, we will analyze a supersonic flow inside a duct and the flow pattern that it generates.

Objectives

In this example, you will learn how to simulate a supersonic flow inside a duct using the density-based solver in Ansys Fluent. You will explore the physics of wave reflection and interaction for a viscous case. You will also learn how to improve the resolution of the shock waves using grid adaption and improve the solution accuracy.

Setup

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

Alternate video link.

Results

Let’s now analyze the simulation and understand the physics of waves reflections and interactions inside a duct.