Assessment of a RANS Transition Model with Flapping Foils at Moderate Reynolds Numbers

Numerical simulations based on a high-order discontinuous Galerkin solver were performed to investigate two-dimensional flapping foils at moderate Reynolds numbers, moving with different prescribed harmonic motion laws. A Spalart–Allmaras RANS model with and without an algebraic local transition modification was employed for the resolution of multiple kinematic configurations, considering both moderate-frequency large-amplitude flapping and high-frequency small-amplitude pure heaving. The propulsive performance of the airfoils with the two modelling approaches were tested by referring to experimental and (scale-resolving) numerical data available in the literature. The results show an increase in effectiveness in predicting loads when applying the transition model. This is particularly true at low Strouhal numbers when, after laminar separation at the leading edge, vorticity dynamics appears to have a strong effect on the forces exerted on the profile. Specifically, the transition model more accurately predicts the wake topology emerging in the flow field, which is the primary influence on thrust/drag generation.