Performance and image analysis of a cavitating process in a small type venturi

A cavitating venturi is a flow control device usually used to deliver constant mass flow rate when operated at cavitation conditions. Experiments were conducted on a small type venturi test rig under varying upstream, throat and downstream conditions. A model for water vapor void fraction is proposed and validated against detailed image analysis of the cavitating process. Both experimental and model results showed that cavitation occurs at a certain critical pressure ratio (downstream pressure/upstream pressure) where the liquid starts to evaporate at the throat of the venturi. As the venturi pressure ratio is decreased than the critical pressure ratio, the mass flow rate is choked resulting in an increased vapor formation in the divergent part of the venturi. This can be predicted by the proposed model as well as the image analysis. Through all the conducted venturi experiments, the critical pressure ratio ranges from 0.70-0.72 corresponding to an upstream temperature of 21 degrees C. At a temperature of 42 degrees C the critical pressure ratio was increased to 0.75. Image analysis clearly shows the vapor formation from the throat up to the middle of the divergent part of the venturi. Traces of vapor are observed at the exit of the venturi where the thermodynamic conditions cannot maintain the existence of vapor bubbles. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.