Cavitation Inception Witnessed by Sound Pressure Level both in Model Test and Prototype Observation

Abstract

The paper concerns with the relationship between cavitation inception d1 and sound pressure level (SPL). A case study of Xiaolangdi Hydro-project has been taken as a typical example, which demonstrates the standard criterion of SPL indicating cavitation inception. Cavitation inception of an orifice plate used for energy dissipation in a tunnel spillway has been witnessed and verified both in model test and prototype observation. A design criterion has been proposed for a cavitation – free hydraulic structure. It can be served as a reference for designers as well as preliminary findings for fundamental cavitation researchers. Consequently, scale effects are discussed with an aim at suggesting an appropriate factor of safety in design.