Control Valve & Orifice Cavitation Index Calculator
Calculate cavitation parameter sigma (σ), incipient cavitation limits, choked liquid flow thresholds, and valve trim damage risk per ISA-RP75.23 and IEC 60534-8-4.
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Valve Trim & Material Construction
Cavitation Severity & Regime
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the physical mechanism of liquid cavitation in valves?
When liquid accelerates through a constricted valve orifice, static pressure drops to its minimum at the vena contracta. If this local pressure drops below fluid vapor pressure (Pv), vapor bubbles flash instantaneously into existence. As fluid slows downstream, static pressure recovers, causing the microscopic bubbles to collapse symmetrically, releasing microjets with localized impact pressures of 100,000 to 200,000 psi that chisel metal away.
What is the pressure recovery factor FL?
FL is a dimensionless measure of internal geometry pressure recovery. High-recovery valves (ball and butterfly valves with FL = 0.55 - 0.70) generate extreme pressure dips at the vena contracta followed by dramatic pressure recovery, making them highly susceptible to severe cavitation. Low-recovery valves (globe valves with FL = 0.90) exhibit minimal pressure recovery, resisting cavitation much better.
How do multi-stage anti-cavitation valve trims eliminate cavitation?
Multi-stage trims divide a single massive pressure drop (e.g. 100 bar down to 5 bar) into 4 to 10 sequential miniature pressure drops. By keeping the local static pressure above the fluid vapor pressure at every stage, vapor bubbles are physically prevented from ever forming.