On the flow around the node to anti-node transition of a flexible cylinder undergoing vortex-induced vibrations

In this paper, the wake structures behind the node to anti-node transitional region of a flexible cylinder undergoing vortex-induced vibrations are investigated experimentally. The cylinder was towed in a still water tank with Reynolds numbers that produced self-sustained stable 2nd mode of structural vibrations, in the range 1500–2000. The wake of the cylinder was analysed using flow visualisation and digital particle image velocimetry at various planes perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder between the node and the anti-node, as well as at planes parallel to the axis of the cylinder. It was observed that at the anti-node, the wake comprised of the classic vortex shedding. The wake at the node consisted of a pair of counter-rotating vortices that remained attached to the cylinder. A transitional region was observed between the nodal and anti-node regions that exhibited a vortex pinch-off in the vicinity of the cylinder and connectivity further downstream of the cylinder.