Numerical Investigation and Statistical Analysis of the Flow Patterns Behind Square Cylinders Arranged in a Staggered Configuration Utilizing the Lattice Boltzmann Method

Abstract

Flow past bluff bodies like square cylinders is important in engineering applications, but flow patterns behind staggered cylinder arrangements remain poorly understood. Existing studies have focused on tandem or side-by-side configurations, while offset orientations have received less attention. The aim of this paper is to numerically investigate flow dynamics and force characteristics behind two offset square cylinders using the single relaxation time lattice Boltzmann method. The effects of changing both the Reynolds number (Re = 1-150) and gap spacing ratio (g* = 0.5-5) between the cylinders are analyzed. Instantaneous vorticity contours, time histories of drag and lift coefficients, power spectra of lift, and force statistics are used to characterize the flow. Different flow regimes have been identified in various ranges of Re and g* - including steady, chaotic, flip-flopping, single-bluff body, and fully developed flows. Larger spacings led to more regular vortex dynamics and force statistics. Smaller spacings promoted complex interactions and modulated forces. Offset cylinder orientation and spacing significantly influence flow features in staggered arrangements. The findings provide new modalities for controlling fluid dynamics past bluff bodies by tuning Re and gap parameters.

Keywords

• lattice boltzmann method
• computational fluid dynamics
• statistical analysis
• analysis of forces
• numerical analysis
• vortex shedding frequency