Growth, oscillation and collapse of vortex cavitation bubbles

The growth, oscillation and collapse of vortex cavitation bubbles are examined using both two- and three-dimensional numerical models. As the bubble changes volume within the core of the vortex, the vorticity distribution of the surrounding flow is modified, which then changes the pressures at the bubble interface. This interaction can be complex. In the case of cylindrical cavitation bubbles, the bubble radius will oscillate as the bubble grows or collapses. The period of this oscillation is of the order of the vortex time scale, tau(V) = 2 pi r(c)/u(theta,max), where r(c) is the vortex core radius and u(theta,max) is Its maximum tangential velocity. However, the period, oscillation amplitude and final bubble radius are sensitive to variations in the vortex properties and the rate and magnitude of the pressure reduction or increase. The growth and collapse of three-dimensional bubbles are reminiscent of the two-dimensional bubble dynamics. But, the axial and radial growth of the vortex bubbles are often strongly coupled, especially near the axial extents of the bubble. As an initially spherical nucleus grows into an elongated bubble, it may take on complex shapes and have volume oscillations that also scale with tau(V). Axial flow produced at the ends of the bubble can produce local pinching and fission of the elongated bubble. Again, small changes in flow parameters can result in substantial changes to the detailed volume history of the bubbles.