Computational Modeling of Thermodynamic Effects in Cryogenic Cavitation

Abstract

Thermal effects substantially impact the cavitation dynamics of cryogenic fluids. The present study strives towards developing an effective computational strategy to simulate cryogenic cavitation aimed at liquid rocket propulsion applications. We employ previously developed cavitation and compressibility models, and incorporate the thermal effects via solving the enthalpy equation and dynamically updating the fluid physical properties. The physical implications of the existing cavitation model are re-examined from standpoint of cryogenic fluids to incorporate a mushy formulation to better reflect the observed "frosty" appearance within the cavity. Performance of the revised cavitation model is compared against the existing cavitation models under non-cryogenic and cryogenic conditions. The computational and physical implications are highlighted.