Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of Cavitating Hydrofoils Near the Sea Surface in Supercritical Open Channel Flows

As a high-speed submerged body travels beneath the water surface, it induces deformation of the free surface and may generate cavitation due to local pressure reductions. In this study, a series of National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) hydrofoils were numerically investigated to analyze the coupled effects of free-surface wave formation and vapor cavity development. The simulations were conducted using a two-phase Volume of Fluid (VOF) approach combined with the Schnerr–Sauer cavitation model. The effects of geometric parameters, including hydrofoil thickness, camber, angle of attack, and cavitation number, were systematically examined. Results indicate that as the hydrofoil approaches the free surface, wave amplitude increases while cavitation bubble size decreases due to elevated ambient pressure. A reduction in submergence depth was found to decrease both lift and drag coefficients. Additionally, increased flow velocity and lower surface pressure promoted the growth of vapor cavities in low-pressure regions, while simultaneously suppressing free-surface wave height. These findings provide insights into the complex interactions between free surface and cavitation effects in high-speed underwater vehicles.

کلیدواژه ها:

Open channel ، High Froude number ، Volume of fluid model ، Cavitation ، Free surface ، National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) hydrofoils ، Computational fluid dynamics