Feasibility of Computational Fluid Dynamics for Analyzing Airflow around Porous Fences

Abstract

This article presents using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to analyze the flow around porous fences. The feasibility of applying 2D and 3D models was assessed with respect to corresponding wind tunnel experiments. Comparisons between the flow structures on leeward of the fence as predicted by CFD models and the wind tunnel measurements were discussed. Velocity values for the two modeling approaches were in good agreement. However, there is a noticeable discrepancy in predicting the turbulence structure. Both 2Dand 3D model have demonstrated the capability to predict flow characteristics necessary for the design of porous fences. However, the selection between 2D and 3D model is dependent on, design stage, and the extent of accuracy required by the application. The presented CFD models are potentially applicable to heat transfer issues.