Physical Modeling of Atmospheric Flow and
Environmental Applications
Bruce R. White
Department
of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering
University
of California, Davis
Abstract
The
philosophy of physical modeling of atmospheric flow is discussed with special
emphasis on wind-tunnel simulation techniques. The governing equations of
motion are analyzed for application of laboratory testing. Key similitude
parameters such as Reynolds, Froude, Rossby, and Richardson numbers, as applied
to wind-tunnel requirements, are discussed. Prevalent boundary condition
requirements, i.e., Jensen’s criterion and fully rough flow, are presented.
Physics of atmospheric boundary layers are presented in the context of
practical laboratory applications. The stack dispersion process of plume rise
and diffusion into the atmosphere are discussed for near-field and far-field
wind-tunnel simulations. Stack downwash, buoyant and non-buoyant stack processes
are examined through experimental testing of full-scale cases and results are
compared to wind-tunnel measurements made to simulate the results.
Additionally, wind-tunnel results are compared to Gaussian-based computer
models (ISCSTII and INPUFF). Comparisons illustrate that site-specific
wind-tunnel results provide better assessment of the dispersion process than do
the generic Gaussian models. Wind-tunnel testing is strongly recommended for
complex geometry and/or unique topographic conditions.
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