2. Cavitation erosion

2.1 Mechanism of cavitation erosion

This form of surface damage consists of the formation of microcavities in metal, resulting from the shock wave caused by the implosion of gas bubbles or vapor pockets enclosed in a fluid moving relative to the surfaces [6][34] . Fluids can be :

• strongly aerated engine oil;

• an equally aerated hydraulic fluid;

• high-temperature water or coolant containing vapour pockets.

Bubbles or vapor pockets grow in cavitation zones, i.e. in areas where the fluid pressure is lower than its vapor pressure....