A Review of the Dynamics of Cavitating Pumps

Abstract

This paper presents a review of some of the recent developments in our understanding of the dynamics and instabilities caused by cavitation in pumps. Focus is placed on presently available data for the transfer functions for cavitating pumps and inducers, particularly on the compliance and mass flow gain factor, which are so critical for pump and system stability. The resonant frequency for cavitating pumps is introduced and contexted. Finally, emphasis is placed on the paucity of our understanding of pump dynamics when the device or system is subjected to global oscillation.