Galerkin Modelling of Constant Physical Propoerty of Fluid Flows Transported towards the Two Outlets Rectangular Channel with the Availability of Tapered Baffles

Abstract

This paper presents a numerical analysis of incompressible fluid flow with constant physical properties in a two-outlet rectangular channel containing tapered baffles installed on the lower wall using the COMSOL Multiphysics software package. The steady-state incompressible Navier-Stokes equations (continuity and momentum equations) are discretized through the finite element method (FEM) using the Galerkin formulation. The discretised equation forms a system of nonlinear equations, which is written in residual form and solved by the Newton-Raphson method with a tolerance of 10 - 05. An extensive parametric study is carried out by changing the Reynolds number (Re = 1-2000) and the inclination of baffles (145° and 180°). We analyse the flow features such as streamlines, vortex strength, and length of eddies to study the effect of geometric and fluid parameters. The findings show that recirculation zones and eddies are formed in the right corner of the tapered baffles and these recirculation zones and eddies grow in size and intensity as the Reynolds number increases as a result of the increased inertia. Moreover, a trailing-edge vortex forms at the top of the upper outlet. Additionally, empirical relationships are obtained through least squares regression, linking vortex properties to flow conditions. This research is relevant in engineering applications, in particular, biosciences and irrigation, where flow control and mixing enhancement are essential.

Keywords: Galerkin Method, Two-Outlet Channel, Tapered Baffles, Constant Property Fluid, FEM, Reynolds Number, Vortex Dynamics, CFD