Cavitation

Restriction orifices and control valves are commonly used for pressure reduction and measurement of flow rates, however for a liquid system, excessive pressure drop across these items of equipment may result in cavitation. This article describes methods of predicting cavitation across restriction orifices and valves and proposes designs which may be used to avoid cavitation.

Cavitation is the formation and subsequent collapse of vapour bubbles in a flowing liquid and is often responsible for significant damage flow equipment such as pumps. This article will provide an overview of cavitation and provide insight into the identification and prevention of cavitation conditions through the calculation of Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH).