Numerical Modeling of LES Based Turbulent Flow Induced Vibration

Flow-induced vibration caused by fully developed pipe flow has been recognized, but not fully investigated under turbulent conditions. This paper focuses on the development of a numerical, fluid-structure interaction (FSI) model that will help define the relationship between pipe wall vibration and the physical characteristics of turbulent flow. Commercial FSI software packages are based on Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) fluid models which do not compute the instantaneous fluctuations in turbulent flow. This paper presents an FSI approach based on Large Eddy Simulation (LES) flow models that compute the instantaneous fluctuations in turbulent flow. The results based on the LES models indicate that these fluctuations contribute to the pipe vibration. It is shown that there is a near quadratic relationship between the standard deviation of the pressure field on the pipe wall and the flow rate. It is also shown that a strong relatonship between pipe vibration and flow rate exists. This research has a direct impact on the geothermal, nuclear, and other fluid transport industries.