In recent years there has been an unmistakable tendency for research in the fields of hydraulics and fluid mechanics to involve ever more sophisticated study of increasingly detailed aspects of problems, while in the process becoming further and further detached from the reali ties faced by practising engineers. At the same time, too many hy draulic engineers have continued to conduct model studies with the goal of obtaining ad-hoc solutions for specific problems, while direct ing little if any of their attention toward elucidation of the underlying mechanics and toward generalization of their results for future appli cation. It was against this background that the International Union of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics (IUTAM) and the International As sociation for Hydraulic Research (IAHR) were approached and asked to cosponsor the Symposium on Flow-Induced Structural Vibrations, which would have as its objective the promotion of interaction between the active researchers and the practitioners, and of communication between the different disciplines concerned. To this end, invitations were extended to individuals who together represented the full range of the investigation-application spectrum, and contributions were so licited from scientists and engineers who, in general, approach vi bration problems along different avenues. In soliciting contributions to the Symposium it was emphasized that priority would be given to IV Preface papers which shed light on the constituent phenomena involved in vi bration problems and thereby enhance our understanding of the basic vibration-inducing mechanisms."

Symposia in the areas of fluid mechanics and hydraulics are, in many cases, strongly oriented toward the researcher, with only peripheral participation of the practicing engineer. The possible danger therein is an increased emphasis on those problems that are theoretically or experimentally attractive, rather than those that would most effectively lead to improved design criteria. To bring the practical aspects of flow-induced vibrations to the forefront, and to enhance in terchange of information on shortcomings of design criteria, it was decided to extend invitations to fielrl engineers, designers and researchers. The leading theme of the Symposium would be experiences from practice, encompassing informa tion on failures, fatigue, and wear; and wherever possible, the associated cures would be addressed as well. Moreover, to promote interaction between disciplines, a variety of specialities, ranging from tall structures to heat exchanger and re actor components, was included; but to keep the undertaking within a reasonable scope, topics dealing with slender body aerodynamics, and high-speed internal and external flow, were not incorporated. During this planning phase, many of our colleagues encouraged us to follow through with the spirit of the Symposium, and provided a number of helpful suggestions. It was gratifying to receive the en dorsement of the International Association for Hydraulic Research and the Inter national Union for Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, as the variety of interests represented by these organizations enhanced the theme of the Symposium.

This graduate-level text presents a synthesis of research and experience from disparate fields to form guidelines for dealing with vibration phenomena of many different origins. It is particularly geared toward assessing sources of excitation in a flow system, identifying the actual danger spots, and finding appropriate cures. 1994 edition.