Separated flow calculations using an Eigenfunction expansion method

Abstract

Flow over a backward facing step is examined by means of an expansion into the eigenfunctions of the Poiseuille flow development. A limit equation is defined for the large Re flow, along with inlet conditions from which the flow evolves. The equations are manipulated to reduce the solution to a quasi-linear ordinary differential equation with eigenfunction initial conditions. Computational results are provided for the first six eigenfunctions. Higher numbers of eigenfunctions generated singularities in the simplified ODE. Streamlines, velocity distributions and pressure data are furnished.