Influence of mechanical properties on cavitation-erosion via cavitating jet

Abstract

A wide range of materials, including aluminum, copper-based alloys, and stainless steel, were studied to correlate mechanical properties with cavitation erosion rates. Cavitation erosion tests using a cavitating jet apparatus showed that AA 6063 aluminum had the highest maximum erosion rate (MER), 171 times higher than bronze, the most erosion-resistant material. Mechanical tests, including microhardness, depth-sensing indentation, quasi-static, and high-strain rate tests, revealed that cavitation erosion does not correlate with a single property. Results indicated that MER increases with decreasing hardness, plastic indentation work, and wear resistance index. Furthermore, quasi-static and high-strain rate tests showed that MER increases with decreasing toughness, ultimate strength, and flow stress. This study offers comprehensive insights into the cavitation erosion behavior of materials.

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Tribology International

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