Evaluation of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes models for simulating vortex-induced vibration in high Reynolds number flow

This study considers the simulation of turbulent two-dimensional vortex-induced vibrations of a spring-mounted cylinder in cross-flow. It focuses on a Reynolds number range of 5×104–105, with spring stiffness 1200 N/m2 and damping coefficients from 28 to 50 Ns/m, for which experimental data are available. Three original outcomes are identified. First, the use of moving overset meshes to track the oscillating cylinder, reduces grid-size requirements and maintains high-quality near-wall resolution even at large oscillation amplitudes. Second, making the turbulent viscosity coefficient of the k−ε model sensitive to the strain rate invariant results in the correct predictions of vibration amplitude and frequency over the available dataset, thus offering a cost-effective approach. Finally, further simulations decouple the effects of the Reynolds number from those of a previously overlooked dimensionless parameter involving the spring constant, and reveal that this second dimensionless parameter exerts a far stronger influence on fluid velocity and flow-induced vibrations than the Reynolds number.