Vortex methods in CFD problems

Different mesh-using methods are widely applied to solve CFD problems. However, these methods are really hard to implement because of the problems associated with mesh construction, especially in complex-shaped domains. Using the mesh-free methods, e.g. vortex methods, could be the way to avoid these difficulties. This paper is focused on investigation the implementation features of vortex methods. Application of some vortex methods to modelling the incompressible flows around bodies is considered. Sometimes authors of vortex methods do not pay enough attention to details, which could complicate the practical application. These aspects of considered vortex methods are also discussed. In particular, it is shown that separate calculation of vortices with positive and negative circulations (the separate calculation approach) significantly improves the reliability of computations. Mathematical background of this approach is provided. The flow around the stable circular cylinder is considered as the test case. Several flow models are examined.