Numerical Computation of Laminar Separation and Reattachment of Flow Over Surface Mounted Ribs

Numerical results are presented concerning the fluid characteristics of steady-state laminar flow over surface mounted ribs. Computations are carried out using a false transient stream function-vorticity form. The effects of the aspect ratios (width-to-depth) of the ribs and Reynolds numbers as well as initial boundary-layer thickness on entire flow field, separated region, and reattachment length are presented and discussed. The computed reattachment distance compares reasonably well with those data reported by previous studies. A correlation is provided in terms of the rib aspect ratio, Reynolds number, and the ratio of boundary-layer thickness and rib height. The pressure drop is excessive along the upstream vertical step face and it recovers thereafter, which agrees qualitatively with those of the previous studies for the flow over backward-facing steps.