Flow Structure and Periodic Processes in a Disc-Shaped Vortex Chamber of a Hydrodynamic Cavitator

Abstract

Introduction. The essence of the acoustic – cavitation processes is that the liquid is passed through sound with a pressure at the wave surface of more than 3 bar that causes local breaks of the liquid in the vacuum phase of the wave and the collapse in the manometric phase. The opposite walls of each cavern in the collapse approach at a speed exceeding two speed of sound, due to which a high energy density is achieved at the meeting point, and what is especially valuable is the mutual transitions of energies from one form to another, unattainable under normal conditions, and, moreover, as inside cavitation area and near it. The novelty of the work is confirmed by the results of a periodic information and patent analysis, and by four patents received for inventions on the topic under consideration.Aim of the Study. The study is aimed at improving the acoustic-cavitation qualities of a disk-shaped vortex chamber used as a liquid whistle.Materials and Methods. In the study, there were used numerical modeling of flows in the FlowVision program, experimental determination of flow rates using a pitot tube, film method, removal of frequency response using SpectraPLUS 5.0, and visualization of flows and processes on optically transparent devices by the method of color indicators in stroboscopic lighting high-speed video shooting.Results. The mechanism of sound generation and noise in the flow transiting through the device has been found. The corrective effect of pump pulsations f = 300 Hz on the sound generation mechanism was revealed. The disc-shaped character of the device, which encloses the input flow in cross section from three directions, contributes to creating a more expressive acoustic signal, forming two conjugate torus vortices along the shell that ensures uniformity of the circumferential flow, attenuation of longitudinal high-frequency oscillations f = 200 kHz, and the creation of periodic zones of increased pressure along the shell. The concentrated tangential entrance to the device determines the central asymmetry of the flows in it and a number of processes that create acoustic noise.Discussion and Conclusion. The frequency of the useful acoustic signal in the vortex chamber is proportional to the speed of the transit flow, and the amplitude is proportional to the dimensions of the device. Along with the useful signal created by the interaction of the peripheral and input parts of the transit flow, noise of similar frequencies is created in the device. Other sources of noise generation are due to the presence of a concentrated tangential input. The formation of two conjugate torus vortices along the shell can be used as a means of controlling the process of interaction between parts of the transit flow. The disc-shaped vortex chamber combines the functions of sound generation and the ability to create a centrifugal field, which expands its technological capabilities.