Assessment of SGS models in an $Re_{\tau}=2000$ channel flow

Typical validation of subgrid scale models for large-eddy simulation are performed at a relatively low Reynolds numbers and at reasonably fine resolutions. We assess the performance of subgrid scale models for large-eddy simulation at a high Reynolds number. Explicitly filtered large-eddy simulations of a fixed pressure gradient driven $Re_{\tau}=2000$ channel flow are performed using the dynamic Smagorinsky, dynamic Vreman (You \& Moin, 2007; Vreman, 2004), and a dynamic eddy viscosity model with $\nu_t = Ck_{sgs}|\bar{S}|^{-1}$. The resolution of LES simulations is chosen to be quite coarse ($\Delta x^+_f \approx 155$, $\Delta z^+_f \approx 78$) in order to highlight the deficiencies of the subgrid scale models. Mean velocity profiles, rms fluctuations, and one dimensional energy spectra are compared with both filtered DNS and unfiltered DNS (Hoyas \& Jimenez, 2006). The $k_{sgs}|\bar{S}|^{-1}$ model most accurately predicts the mean velocity profile, predicts the mass flux within 1.5\%, and the centerline velocity within 3\%. The effect of using a global coefficient for the eddy viscosity model versus a wall normal varying model coefficient will also be discussed.