Cavitation

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-004411",
  "term": "Cavitation",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. (CAV-uh-TAY-shun) The formation and collapse of a gas pocket or bubble on the blade of an impeller or the gate of a valve. The collapse of this gas pocket or bubble drives water into the impeller or gate with a terrific force that can cause pitting on the impeller or gate surface Cavitation is accompanied by loud noises that sound like someone is pounding on the impeller or gate with a hammer.\n\n2. The formation and collapse of gas pockets or bubbles on the blade of an impeller or the gate of a valve; collapse of these pockets or bubbles drives water with such force that it can cause pitting of the gate or valve surface.\n\n3. Phase changes that occur from pressure changes in a fluid that forms bubbles, resulting in noise or vibration in the water column. The Implosion of these bubbles against a solid surface, such as a hydraulic turbine, may cause erosion, and lead to reductions in capacity and efficiency pressure.",
  "subject": "General environmental",
  "references": [
    "Drinking Water Technical & Legal Terms",
    "Terms of Environment",
    "DOE Water Power Technologies Office Glossary of Hydropower Terms"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/cavitation/"
}