Objectives  Two-equation models are the turbulence models most commonly used for RANS calculations in engineering applications. The SST k-ω turbulence model is self-adaptive of wall distance and capable of predicting adverse pressure gradient flows. However, as empirical constants are introduced to derive turbulence models, none of them are universal for all flow conditions. Flow control parameters are implemented in this study to improve the adaptability of turbulence models to ship flow fields.

  Methods  The GEKO (Generalized k-ω) turbulence model is based on the classical SST k-ω turbulence model, while also introducing separation parameter C_S and rotation parameter C_RC in order to control the separation intensity and impact of the flow rotation respectively. The new turbulence model is then applied to predict the flow of a JBC ship. In order to inspect the influence of varying settings of C_S and C_RC, the experimental data is compared with the calculation results in terms of ship resistance, wake patterns and pressure distribution.

  Results  The comparison results show that the setting of C_S and C_RC in the GEKO turbulence model can have an impact on the prediction of ship resistance and local wake flow compared to the classical SST k-ω turbulence model.

  Conclusions  The reasonable parameter tuning of turbulence models has the potential to improve the accuracy and applicability of numerical prediction. This procedure can provide references for the modification of turbulence models in engineering applications.