Time resolved X-ray densitometry for cavitating and ventilated partial cavities

Issue title: Papers from the 29th Symposium on Naval Hydrodynamics, 26–31 August 2012, Gothenburg, Sweden

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Mäkiharju, S.A.^; | Perlin, M. | Ceccio, S.L.

Affiliations: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author. E-mail: smakihar@umich.edu

Abstract: Gas cavities, natural and ventilated, can occur on ship propulsors, control surfaces and hulls. These cavities can be significant sources of small bubbles in the ship wake. We present a two-dimensional time resolved X-ray densitometry system developed for investigation of natural, ventilated and mixed cavities. First we consider the limitations and performance of our X-ray system, and compare the measured void fraction to stationary known void fraction, and to data for a ventilated cavity obtained using dual fiber optical probes. Second, we present preliminary data from time-resolved X-ray used to observe the overall dynamics and time dependent void fraction distribution of a cavitating backward facing step with and without gas injection.

Keywords: Partial cavity, ventilated cavity, X-ray, densitometry, cavitation

DOI: 10.3233/ISP-130086

Journal: International Shipbuilding Progress, vol. 60, no. 1-4, pp. 471-494, 2013