Numerical Simulation of Supercavitating Flows using a Viscous-Potential Method

Abstract

A numerical method was developed to predict the supercavity around axi-symmetric bodies. Employing potential flow, the proposed method computes the cavity shape and drag force, which are the important features of practical concern for supercavitating objects. A method to calculate the frictional drag acting on the wetted body surface was implemented, which is called the viscous-potential method. The results revealed details of the drag curve appearing in the course of an increase in speed and cavity growth. In addition, the supercavity and drag features of the actual shape of the supercavitating torpedo were investigated according to the different depth conditions.