NeuralFVM: Neural-physics-based Finite Volume Method for Turbulent Flows Using the $k$-$ω$ Model
physics.flu-dyn
/ Authors
Tingkai Xue, Yu Jiao, Te Ba, Jingliang Wang, Juntao Yang, Simon See, Boyang Chen, Claire E. Heaney, Christopher C. Pain, Chang Wei Kang
and 2 more authors
/ Abstract
In this work, we develop a neural-physics solver based on finite volume method (FVM), namely NeuralFVM, for turbulent flows by implementing the standard $k$-$ω$ model designed for efficient Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) execution. The governing equations for fluid flow and heat transfer are reformulated as local tensor operations using convolution-based stencil operators, which enables compatibility with deep learning libraries while preserving the conservative properties of the FVM. A key challenge in implementing the turbulent model within such a framework is the treatment of the stiff destruction terms in the $k$ and $ω$ transport equations. To address this issue, an operator-splitting strategy is introduced in which the stiff destruction terms are handled semi-implicitly while the remaining terms are advanced explicitly. This formulation avoids global matrix assembly and allows the entire solver to be implemented using local tensor operations. In addition, the pressure-velocity coupling is solved using a convolution-based geometric multigrid algorithm embedded within a neural network architecture. The resulting NeuralFVM solver is validated through comparison with simulations conducted using the commercial CFD software ANSYS Fluent for several channel-flow configurations and an indoor airflow scenario. The results demonstrate close agreement in velocity, temperature, and turbulence quantities, confirming the accuracy of the proposed approach. The developed GPU framework achieves a speedup of around 19-46 times compared with its Central Processing Unit (CPU) counterpart under different meshes. Moreover, the proposed solver naturally integrates with machine learning workflows, providing a promising foundation for future data-driven turbulence modeling and optimization.