Dynamic Characteristics of Supercavitating Flow Around a Hydrofoil

Supercavitation dynamic characteristics around a hydrofoil are studied with both high-speed visualization and drag and lift measurements. In the supercavitation condition, the cavitation area covers the entire surface of the foil. There is a distinct interface between the main flow and the supercavitating flow regions. The cavitating region is filled with cavitation bubble and water mixture. Small fluctuations of the interface are observed, which indicates that even a relative smooth surface is formed in this state, the interface is unsteady. The minimum drag is to be obtained in the supercavitation condition.