Fluid-structure interaction over a backward-facing step equipped with an elastic baffle

This study focus on a particular Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) issue: the interaction of a flow over a backward-facing step with an elastic baffle located in the recirculation area behind the step. The complex flow separation and recirculation characteristics of the backward facing step flow make it an excellent case study for investigating FSI. The inclusion of an elastic baffle adds more complexity, as the flow field affects the baffle's deformation and vice versa in a dynamic way. Comprehending this interaction relationship is essential for enhancing designs when flexible parts are exposed to fluctuating fluid currents. This research examines the interaction between a turbulent flow over a backward-facing step and an elastic baffle placed in the recirculation zone, known as fluid-structure interaction (FSI). The numerical simulation involves using a connected fluid-structure solver, utilizing ANSYS Fluent for fluid dynamics and ANSYS Mechanical for structural mechanics. The effect of baffle size, position and baffle deformation on the hydrodynamic and thermal behavior is conducted for various Reynolds numbers. Findings indicate a notable change in the flow and thermal fields and caused by the flexibility of the baffle. The results offer important information about the possibility of using elastic baffles for passive flow control in various applications like micro fluidic devices and heat exchangers.