An Evaluation of CFD Cavitation Models using Streamline Data

In the present work, finite-rate cavitation models common to multi-phase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) are evaluated. These evaluations are based along streamlines extracted from benchmarked CFD. The results include comparative studies of: (1) full Rayleigh-Plesset equation (RPE), (2) simplifications to the RPE, and (3) other cavitation models. Additionally, using this approach, numerical uncertainty is evaluated at a much higher level than previously considered. In the context of developed cavitation, the present assessments elucidate similarities and differences between cavitation models and suggest mesh requirements are more demanding the normally considered.