Some Issues Concerning Fluid-Elastic Instability of a Group of Circular Cylinders in Cross-Flow

Since the early 1970s, extensive studies of fluid-elastic instability of circular cylinders in cross-flow have been reported. A significant understanding of the phenomena involved now exists. However, some confusion, misunderstanding, and misinterpretation still remain. The objective of this paper is to discuss, based on the current state of the art, a series of the most asked questions. Emphasis is placed on the determination of the critical flow velocity, nondimensional parameters, stability criteria, and instability mechanisms.