Modelling fluid–structure interactions: a survey of methods and experimental verification

It is difficult to study fluid structure interaction (FSI) problems using analytical methods due to flow non-linearity and multiphysics. Therefore, the main emphasis for research is placed on the application and development of numerical methods. Furthermore, for consistent and accurate results, it is essential to run numerical models previously implemented and calibrated with experimental data. This survey paper shows the main concepts and different approaches of the existing numerical models of FSI. Furthermore, the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) Lagrangian model for numerical simulations of fluid–structure interactions is analysed. In particular, the flow of fluid around a National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics 0024 hydrofoil has been studied using a weakly compressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics scheme, together with a two-equation turbulence model. The high accuracy of the SPH model is confirmed through a comparison with experimental data.