Numerical Simulation of Turbulent Flows with Sheet Cavitation

Abstract

A pressure-based algorithm is developed and applied to compute turbulent sheet cavitating flows. Single-fluid Navier-Stokes equations, cast in their conservative form, along with a volume fraction transport equation are employed. The flow is computed in both phases with the vapor pressure recovered inside the cavity via a mass transfer model. A pressure-velocity-density coupling scheme along with an upwinded density interpolation is developed to handle the large density ratio associated with cavitation. The method is assessed through simulations of cavitating flows over a cylindrical object and an airfoil. The results show satisfactory agreement with experimental data in pressure distribution. In addition, information such as wall shear stress distributions and related velocity and turbulence fields is highlighted for both axisymmetric projectile and NACA airfoil.