Is cavitation worse at depth? (Fluid pressure and Vapor pressure boiling)

In summary: I don't understand this question.A cavity is formed when the fluid cannot accelerate sufficiently to fill the volume left by the rotating propeller. Cavitation is reduced at greater hydrostatic pressures because the force available to keep the cavity closed is greater.
  • #1
Timtam
42
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I am wondering about the impact of the hydro static pressure of a fluid on its boiling point.
The simplest real world example scenario I can think of is the rate/onset of cavitation at a large depth vs a shallow depth.

As we increase the submarine propellor speed to a speed where the adjacent fluid is brought below its vapour pressure would cavitation occur at lower propeller speeds at shallower depths or deeper.

If this is complicating the issue too much then in the standard vacuum boiling example (where we know boiling onset is decreased if the gas phase pressure is continually maintained at a lower pressure than the vapour pressure of the fluid) , conversely if we could iso-thermally maintain the liquid pressure slightly higher than the gas phase above it would boiling onset be earlier for a given temperature?

Many thanks
 
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  • #2
It would occur at lower propeller speeds at shallower depths. The absolute pressure must be decreased below the equilibrium vapor pressure of water for boiling or cavitation to occur.
 
  • #3
Chestermiller said:
It would occur at lower propeller speeds at shallower depths. The absolute pressure must be decreased below the equilibrium vapor pressure of water for boiling or cavitation to occur.
Thanks ChesterMiller that makes sense , what are your thoughts on the second example- raising the liquid pressure, is that analogous to raising the temperature of the liquid ? I can't think of a real world example of where a liquid could be a higher pressure at the surface than the gas phase above but if that was the case would boiling be onset earlier ?
 
  • #4
Timtam said:
Thanks ChesterMiller that makes sense , what are your thoughts on the second example- raising the liquid pressure, is that analogous to raising the temperature of the liquid ? I can't think of a real world example of where a liquid could be a higher pressure at the surface than the gas phase above but if that was the case would boiling be onset earlier ?
I don't understand this question.
 
  • #5
A cavity is formed when the fluid cannot accelerate sufficiently to fill the volume left by the rotating propeller. Cavitation is reduced at greater hydrostatic pressures because the force available to keep the cavity closed is greater.

The boiling point at high pressure is not important. The cavity formed will contain vapour at the vapour pressure expected at that temperature. That vapour will be violently compressed as the cavity closes, which causes the corrosion problems.
 

FAQ: Is cavitation worse at depth? (Fluid pressure and Vapor pressure boiling)

Is cavitation more likely to occur at greater depths?

Yes, cavitation is more likely to occur at greater depths. This is because the fluid pressure increases with depth, while the vapor pressure remains constant. As the fluid pressure approaches or exceeds the vapor pressure, the fluid can vaporize and form bubbles, leading to cavitation.

How does fluid pressure affect cavitation?

Fluid pressure plays a crucial role in cavitation. As the fluid pressure increases, the vapor pressure is also affected. If the fluid pressure exceeds the vapor pressure, cavitation can occur. This is because the fluid can vaporize and form bubbles, leading to cavitation.

Can cavitation occur at shallow depths?

Yes, cavitation can occur at shallow depths. However, it is less likely to occur compared to greater depths. This is because the fluid pressure is lower at shallow depths, making it less likely for the fluid to exceed the vapor pressure and cause cavitation.

What are the effects of cavitation at depth?

Cavitation can have various effects at depth, depending on the system in which it occurs. In some cases, it can cause damage to equipment due to the collapse of the vapor bubbles. It can also lead to noise and vibration, which can affect the performance of the system. In certain situations, cavitation can also cause erosion and wear on surfaces.

How can cavitation be prevented at depth?

Cavitation can be prevented at depth by ensuring that the fluid pressure does not exceed the vapor pressure. This can be achieved by maintaining proper system design and operating conditions. In some cases, adding aeration or reducing the fluid velocity can also help prevent cavitation. Regular maintenance and monitoring can also help identify and address any potential causes of cavitation.

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