Mechanism of multiscale cavitation induced pressure pulses on a propeller

Abstract

This study explores the evolution characteristics of pressure pulses caused by cavitating flow around a highly-skewed propeller. The fluctuation law of low-frequency pressure around the propeller is mainly determined by the rotational motion of the propeller, which is less affected by cavitation. The occurrence, rupture, shedding, and collapse of a vapor cavity will promote a significant increase in medium and high frequency pressure. Most notably, the fragmentation and shedding of small-scale cavities can cause pressure peaks in the mid-frequency region. Meanwhile, the collapse of microbubbles will lead to pressure pulses fluctuating at a decreased rate of 6 dB per octave.

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