Research Projects

This study aims to investigate flow control using control rods, oscillating and rotating bluff bodies, and a square cylinder. Most studies focus on circular geometry, but few on sharp edge objects like squares or rectangulars. The aim is to modify the flow behind the cylinder for drag reduction, with a control rod diameter of 20% of the cylinder diameter. Experiments will be performed by positioning the control rod at different locations based on the wake structure formed. Electromagnetic actuators will be used to control the flow field and a stepper motor will be used to impart rotational behavior. The amplitude of oscillation will be varied by 3-10% of the cylinder size and the frequency of oscillation will be varied in harmonics of the vortex shedding frequency of the stationary cylinder. A square cylinder made of aluminum with black anodizing and machined sharp edges will be used for the best results. A dual-channel power oscillator with electromagnetic drive units will be used for oscillation, calibrated using a Polytec scanning Vibrometer (PsV 500). A micro-step driver will rotate the cylinder stepper motor, with a microcontroller using Arduino providing time delay and step angle.