Large eddy simulation of subchannels using the lattice Boltzmann method

Large eddy simulation results of a subchannel of a rod bundle with triangular rod arrangement are presented. The simulations have been carried out using the lattice Boltzmann method. The simulation results are compared with the measurements of (Trupp and Azad, 1975) [Trupp, A.C., Azad, R.S., 1975. The structure of turbulent flow in triangular array rod bundles. Nucl. Eng. Des. 32, 47]. The mean axial velocity profile shows good agreement with the measurement data. Secondary flow has been deduced from the measurements and it has been observed directly in the simulation results. Reasonable agreement has been achieved for most Reynolds stresses. Nevertheless, the calculated normal stresses show small, but systematic deviation from the measurement data.