Size of boundary layer
 

Hello dear Foamers,

I have a question about k-omega-SST turbulence model. There are two turb. models, connected in it; the one is for the boundary layer, and the other is for the other flow.

Does someone know "how large" is the boundary layer in case of a flow around an airfoil? It suppose to be infinite small, but I wonder how does this works in a OpenFoam simulation?

Sincerely, Olivia

Dear Olivia,

check out the book "Boundary-Layer Theory" by Schlichting & Gersten.
There you find everything on BL, including formulas for computing approximate BL thickness for flat plates. This value you can use as approximation of an airfoil`s BL.

Otherwise you can use XFOIL for BL thickness calculation.

Best regards
Julian