Effects of an aerated supercavity on the dynamics of a backward-facing cavitator

Direct numerical simulations are performed to investigate the formation of an artificial aerated supercavity on a backward-facing cavitator. The Reynolds number based on the diameter of the cavitator (d_c) is kept at 10,000. Air is used as the medium for ventilation. The air ventilation coefficient (C_q) is kept fixed at 0.3 with the Froude number based on the diameter of the cavitator (Fr) tending to infinity. A Volume of Fluid multiphase model is employed to solve the two-phase flow. The pressure distribution inside the cavity and at the re-entrant jet closure region has been examined. The effect of the supercavity on the drag characteristics of the body is also investigated, along with the turbulent characteristics of the flow in the cavity closure region.