Transient simulations of cavitating flows using a modified volume-of-fluid (VOF) technique

In this study, transient 2D/axisymmetric simulations of cavitating flows are performed using a modified 'Volume-of-Fluid' (VOF) technique. Simulation of the cavitation is based on a homogenous equilibrium flow model. To predict the shape of the cavity, the Navier-Stokes equations in addition to an advection equation for the liquid volume fraction are solved. Mass transfer between the phases is treated as a sink term in the VOF equation. The numerical method is used for different geometries in a wide range of cavitation numbers. Computed shapes of cavities were found to be in good agreement with those of the reported experiments. The simulation results also compared well with those obtained from analytical relations.