Multiscale modeling of cavitation around high-speed object based on Euler-Lagrange model and overset mesh

Abstract Cavitation is a common phenomenon, which usually occurs inside the high-speed liquid or at the liquid-solid interface. The unsteady behaviors of cavitating flow, such as shedding and collapse, can cause intense pressure fluctuations and reduce the stability of devices such as under-water high-speed vehicles. In addition, cavitating flow changes the dynamic characteristics of the liquid and causes vibration of the structure as well, making it extremely difficult in achieving precise control. Using OpenFOAM, the present work employs the large eddy simulation (LES) approach to investigate the characteristics of the unsteady cavitating flow around a high-speed under-water object with using the overset mesh technology. The volume of fluid (VOF) approach jointed with the Lagrangian discreate bubble model (DBM) is used for capturing the multiscale cavitation features. The Schnerr & Sauer model is applied for the mass transfer between water and vapor in macroscale, while the Reynolds-Pel equation is incorporated for the growing and collapsing of microscale bubbles. Due to the difficulty in incorporating the multi-scale method into the problems with mesh motion, the present work employs the overset mesh method. Compared with the published small-scale water tank experiment, the LES simulation results fit well with the experimental phenomena, and the DBM can capture the small bubbles accurately. On the basis of model verification, the mechanisms of cavitation forming and collapsing is investigated and the effect of cavitation shedding on the motion of the object is also studied. Moreover, the nucleation, growth, collapse of bubbles, and the interaction between discrete bubbles and large cavities can be well revealed. Further, the multi-scale Euler-Lagrange model is also applied in the rotating propeller, the generation of tip vortex cavitation which is hard to be captured by traditional models is well presented.