Numerical simulation of laminar flow around rotating cylinder - Effect of rotational speed on vortex shedding

Abstract

This thesis investigates the complex dynamics of laminar flow around a rotating circular cylinder and the resultant vortex shedding, utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. A comprehensive numerical study was performed to assess the impact of cylinder rotation parameters, specifically the amplitude and frequency of rotational speed, on vortex shedding behavior. The simulations, conducted using ANSYS Fluent, explored various configurations of the cylinder’s rotational speed characterized by dimensionless parameters such as the Reynolds number and Strouhal number. The study employed a detailed meshing strategy to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results, correlating closely with established benchmarks in fluid dynamics literature. The outcomes demonstrate significant variations in drag and lift coefficients with changes in the rotational parameters, revealing intricate relationships between the dynamics of vortex shedding and the rotational characteristics of the cylinder. The findings have profound implications for improving the efficiency and stability of systems involving cylindrical bodies in fluid flows, such as marine structures and aerodynamic components. Future research is suggested to further explore the interdependencies of rotational parameters and to optimize design and operational strategies for industrial applications involving fluid dynamics.