Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Non-Newtonian Flow Past Cylinders

A second-order lattice Boltzmann algorithm is used for power-law non-Newtonian flow simulation. The shear dependent behavior of the fluid is implemented through calculating the shear locally from the lattice distribution functions. The flow past a series of tandem arrangement of two cylinders is computed in a confined domain. The effect of Reynolds number and the power-law index on drag coefficients of the cylinders are examined in detail. The present study clearly reveals the capability of the lattice Boltzmann method in successful simulation of the complicated non-Newtonian flow fields.