Wake state and energy transitions of an oscillating cylinder at low Reynolds number

Abstract

This paper reports on an extensive parameter space study of two-dimensional simulations of a circular cylinder forced to oscillate transverse to the free-stream. In particular, the extent of the primary synchronization region, and the wake modes and energy transfer between the body and the fluid are analyzed in some detail. The frequency range of the primary synchronization region is observed to be dependent on Reynolds number, as are the wake modes obtained. Energy transfer is primarily dependent on frequency at low amplitudes of oscillation, but primarily dependent on amplitude at high amplitudes of oscillation. However, the oscillation amplitude corresponding to zero energy transfer is found to be relatively insensitive to Reynolds number. It is also found that there is no discernible change to the wake structure when the energy transfer changes from positive to negative.