Numerical investigation of partial cavitation in a Venturi tube by Eulerian-Lagrangian multiscale modelling

Abstract

Abstract The cavitating flow in a Venturi tube has a complex flow structure. In this paper, the partial cavitation in an axisymmetric Venturi tube, dominated by bubbly shock, is investigated by utilizing Eulerian-Lagrangian multiscale modelling. The unsteady partial cavitation is simulated by Large Eddy Simulation coupled with the Volume of Fluid and the Discrete Bubble Model. The numerical results show a well agreement with the high-speed photography. Through a comprehensive analysis of the development and transportation of macro cavities and micro bubbles, a detailed explanation of the cavity shedding process triggered by bubbly shock is provided. The results highlight the precise capability of the multi-scale method in elucidating the intricate flow field induced by partial cavitation. The findings may pave the way for the further investigations on the underlying mechanisms of partial cavitation, fostering a deeper understanding of bubbly shock dominated cavitating flow.