Cavitation in Turbopumps—Part 2

Abstract

Cavitation performance data of several helical inducers for various flow coefficients are correlated with existing theory. For complete head breakdown conditions, the method employs semiempirical correlation coefficients which supplement the idealized free-streamline solutions obtained by various investigators. Considerations are given to the partial cavitation region utilizing the free-streamline wake solution. The model clearly illustrates the influence of the mixing losses, downstream of the cavity closure, on the inducer’s developed head as the inlet pressure is reduced. With the use of the above semiempirical correlation factors the theory forms a useful basis for design.