Validation and comparison of 2D and 3D numerical simulations of flow in simplex nozzles

Abstract

Numerical simulations of pressure swirl atomizers are computationally expensive due to transient and multiphase flow behavior. In this study, 2D and 3D VOF simulations are performed for a geomerty which has high swirl chamber length-to-diameter ratio of 1.33. discharge coefficient (CD) and spray angle values are compared to the experimental data. Moreover, a benchmark study is conducted between 2D and 3D methods in terms of accuracy, computational cost and flow variables such as orifice exit axial and tangential velocity. The simulations are performed using a hybrid RANS-LES approach, IDDES model. It is observed that 2D simulation has lower accuracy in the validation parameters such as discharge coefficient and spray angle as compared to the 3D simulation. The main reason for 2D simulation inaccuracy might be the tangential port inlet effects and wrong estimation of the loss of swirl inside the swirl chamber. On the other hand, 2D simulations have approximately 1000 times lower computational cost than 3D simulations.