Low-Reynolds-number flow around a wall-mounted square cylinder: Flow structures and onset of vortex shedding

Abstract

A direct numerical simulation is applied to investigate three-dimensional unsteady flow characteristics around a finite wall-mounted square cylinder with an aspect ratio of 7 at a Reynolds number (Re) of 40-250. Determination of Re for the onset of vortex shedding and Re influence on the wake structure and integral parameters are the major objectives of the current research. The results show that the vortex shedding inception occurs within the range of 75 < Re < 85. Re has a considerable effect on the mean wake topology and integral parameters. As such, the wake flow changes from a dipole to a quadrupole type, when the flow changes from steady to unsteady. A transition flow commences at Re = 150-200, where the wake instabilities are intensified with increasing Re, and the force signal oscillation alters from a sinusoidal to a chaotic type. Finally, the wake flow becomes turbulent at Re > 200.