Consistent Petrov-Galerkin finite element simulation of channel flows

In this paper, Navier-Stokes fluid flows in curved channels are considered. Upstream of the backward-facing step, there exists a channel with a 90 deg rees bend and a fixed curvature of 2.5. The purpose of conducting this stud y was to apply a finite element code to study the effect of the distorted u pstream velocity profile developing over the bend on laminar expansion flow s behind the step. The size of the eddies formed downstream of the step is addressed. The present work employs primitive velocities, which stagger the pressure working variable, to assure satisfaction of the inf-sup stability condition. In quadratic elements, spatial derivatives are approximated wit hin the consistent Petrov-Galerkin finite element framework. Use of this me thod aids stability in the sense that artificial damping is solely added to the direction parallel to the flow direction. Through analytical testing, in conjunction with two other benchmark tests, the integrity of applying th e computer code in quadratic elements is verified. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.