Random Response to Flow-Induced Forces

The response statistics of a linear structure subjected to excitation induced by a random flow with a non zero-mean velocity is examined. The technique of statistical linearization is applied on the nonlinear equation of motion of the structure. Approximate solutions for the structural response statistics are obtained. The Pierson-Moskowite is used to described the energy versus frequency distribution of the randomly flucuating component of the fluid motions. Results of several studies regarding parameters such as the fluid density and the structural stiffness are presented. The accuracy and efficiency of the analytical approach is assessed by comparison with data obtained by Monte Carlo simulations of the random structural response.