Numerical Analysis of Two-Dimensional Peristaltic Flows : 4th Report, Application of the Dennis and Chang Scheme

Abstract

Peristaltic flow generated in a two-dimensional channel is investigated numerically and experimentally, in the range of large wave amplitude and large Reynolds numbers where peristaltic pumping has a possibility of engineering application. The Navier-Stokes equations are solved numerically by using the finite-difference method employing the modified upwind scheme proposed by Dennis and Chang, which provides both computational stability and good solution accuracy even at a high Reynolds number. Visualized photographs of the streamline and the particle trajectories are shown, and the velocity profiles in the flow are obtained by using image processing. In addition, the Lagrangian trajectories of the fluid particles are investigated in detail to elucidate the reflux phenomenon. Comparison between the results of numerical and experimental analysis shows a good agreement and gives verification to the theoretical analysis. In the light of the results, a distinctive feature of peristaltic flow at a large wave amplitude and large Reynolds number is discussed.