Cavitating

The process or action of forming and collapsing vapor-filled cavities (bubbles) in a liquid due to rapid pressure changes, typically caused by the motion of a submerged object or a pressure wave. This phenomenon can lead to significant effects, including erosion, noise, vibration, and changes in fluid dynamics. It's often undesirable in engineering applications, potentially causing damage to machinery. However, in some controlled contexts, like medical ultrasound, cavitation is a desired effect.

Cavitating meaning with examples

• The propeller of the high-speed ship was cavitating severely, producing a loud, rattling noise and causing a noticeable loss of efficiency. The captain slowed the ship down to mitigate the intense pressure fluctuations that were causing the vapor bubbles.
• The pump designed to move the corrosive liquid began to fail; the impeller blades were being eroded due to the intense cavitating action in the restricted flow passages. Maintenance was scheduled after a concerning inspection report.
• During the ultrasonic cleaning process, the transducer generated high-frequency sound waves causing the fluid to cavitate, effectively removing microscopic debris from the delicate electronic components being processed. The entire process was incredibly efficient.
• Scientists were observing the complex flow patterns in a water tunnel; when the object reached a critical speed, the rapid drop in pressure caused the fluid surrounding it to begin cavitating intensely. New data was obtained for further analysis.
• The design of the torpedo's propulsion system needed to minimize cavitation to achieve stealth and reduce hydrodynamic drag. Careful selection of propeller shape and operating parameters were considered in all simulations.