A simplified method for time domain simulation of cross-flow vortex-induced vibrations

A new method for time domain simulation of cross-flow vortex-induced vibrations of slender circular cylindrical structures is developed. A model for the synchronization between the lift force and structure motion is derived from already established data for the cross-flow excitation coefficient. The proposed model is tested by numerical simulations, and the results are compared to experimental observations. When a sinusoidal cross-flow motion is given as input to the algorithm, the generated force time series are generally in good agreement with experimental measurements of cross-flow force in phase with cylinder velocity and acceleration. The model is also utilized in combination with time integration of the equation of motion to simulate the cross-flow vibration of a rigid cylinder. The resulting amplitude and frequency of motion as functions of reduced velocity are compared to published experimental results. In combination with the finite element method, the model is used to simulate cross-flow vibrations of a flexible cylinder in shear flow. Comparison with experiments shows that the model is capable of reproducing important quantities such as frequency, mode and amplitude, although some discrepancies are seen. This must be expected due to the complexity of the problem and the simple form of the present method. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.