An improved theoretical model for the dynamics of a free–clamped cylinder in axial flow

Abstract

A new, improved linear analytical model is presented in this paper for the dynamics of a slender cantilevered cylinder with an ogival free end, subjected to axial flow directed from its free end towards the clamped one. In the present model the fluid-dynamic forces at the free end of the cylinder are analysed in a meticulous manner. The model predicts that the cylinder loses stability at relatively low flow velocity by flutter, and then at higher flow velocity by static divergence. This agrees with the dynamical behaviour observed in experiments. Moreover, quantitative agreement in the critical flow velocities for flutter and divergence between this improved theory and experiment is fairly good.