THE INFLUENCE OF THE TURBULENCE MODEL ON THE RESULTS OF COMPUTATIONAL EXPERIMENTS WITH A FINE-DISPERSED CALCULATION GRID AND LOW AERODYNAMIC VELOCITIES

Abstract

The development of digitalization has enabled the widespread adoption of modern technologies in scientific and engineering experiments in various industrial fields. This article discusses the process of creating a digital twin for complex technical systems for conducting large-scale experiments using a small-sized subsonic wind tunnel applied in structural aerodynamics research. The main objective is to analyze the impact of the turbulence model selection on the results of computer experiments performed on a fine-resolution computational grid at low airflow velocities. The study compares three common models (k-ε, SST, and BSL RS) to determine the optimal model for this type of research. The results show that the models produce similar flow distribution patterns, but the SST turbulence model demonstrates the most effective balance between accuracy and computational complexity, providing the smoothest and fastest solution with minimal differences from more complex models. Based on these findings, the SST turbulence model is recommended for further calculations. Its application can improve the efficiency of digital support for aerodynamic research and maintain the lifecycle of the technical installation.