Video 5 C1: Cavitation Explained Flashcards
1
Q
what is cavitation?
A
rapid formation and collapse of vapour bubbles within a liquid
2
Q
when does cavitation occur mainly?
A
when the static pressure (head) becomes smaller than the liquid’s vapour pressure (head)
3
Q
static pressure is lower when the pipe area is _____, because the velocity is also____
A
smaller; lower
4
Q
how does cavitation ruin pipes?
A
the micro-jets from the collapsing bubbles hit the pipe walls, eroding the pipe’s material
5
Q
what do cavitation bubbles block?
A
blocks flow of water through reduced cross section of pipe
