Linearized Potential Flow Models for Hydrofoils in Supercavitating Flows

A number of linearized models of fully cavitating flow about hydrofoils are investigated. Specifically, the cavity closure and wake behind the closure are examined and their effects on the characteristics of a symmetrical wedge, a base-vented hydrofoil, and a supercavitating hydrofoil of arbitrary shape are considered. By comparing theoretical and experimental results, the suitability of various flow models is examined and the one which gives the best results is explored in detail. A method based on the later model for calculating the characteristics of a hydrofoil with a cavity of finite length is presented.