Cavitation is a phenomenon where air bubbles form within a fluid under low-pressure conditions, specifically when the pressure drops below the fluid’s saturation pressure. This condition is particularly problematic in pipes and sewers where fluid velocities are high.
According to Bernoulli’s Equation, an increase in fluid velocity results in a corresponding decrease in pressure. When this pressure falls below the saturation pressure, dissolved gases within the fluid are released, forming air bubbles. As the flow transitions to a region of higher pressure, these bubbles abruptly collapse, generating intense shockwaves. The high frequency of these shockwaves exerts a powerful dynamic pressure on the surrounding infrastructure, leading to potential damage and erosion of pipelines.
Cavitation is a significant concern in hydraulic systems, as it can cause pitting, material degradation, and even catastrophic failure of pipes and equipment. Therefore, engineers must carefully manage flow velocities and pressures to mitigate the risk of cavitation and ensure the long-term integrity of the infrastructure.