Intro to Chemical Engineering
Cavitation is the formation and collapse of vapor-filled cavities or bubbles in a liquid, typically occurring in pumps and compressors when the pressure drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid. This phenomenon can lead to significant damage to equipment due to the high energy release from the implosion of these bubbles, which generates shock waves and can erode surfaces. Understanding cavitation is crucial for ensuring efficient operation and longevity of pumps and compressors.
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