Acoustic characterization of a cavitation tunnel for ship propeller noise studies

• Published in: Journal of ocean engineering and science 2024-02
• Main Authors: Bocanegra, J.A., Borelli, D., Gaggero, T., Pico, R., Tani, G.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: cavitation noise; cavitation tunnel; propeller noise; radiated noise; ship propellers; underwater noise
• ISSN: 2468-0133; 2468-0133
• DOI: 10.1016/j.joes.2024.02.001

•An acoustic characterization of a cavitation tunnel was developed•Normal modes and acoustic response to harmonic sources was studied•A three-dimensional numerical model was developed•The influence of different elements on the tunnel's acoustic response was studied•Numerical predictions were validated in the low-mid frequency range The noise radiated by ship propellers can be studied by a scale model in a cavitation tunnel. However, transferring the measurements made in the enclosed space of the tunnel to the expected values in a full-scale propeller in a free field presents a challenge for noise measurements. An acoustic characterization of the DITEN cavitation tunnel, including a study of normal modes and acoustic response to harmonic sources, is presented to understand the primary acoustic behaviour of the enclosure and its propagation characteristics of sound waves in the test section. A three-dimensional numerical model was developed to simulate the DITEN Genoa University cavitation tunnel and evaluate the influence of elements such as a dynamometer, fins, impeller, and source position on the acoustic response of the tunnel. The study showed the influence of the mentioned elements on the acoustic response of the tunnel, and the numerical predictions were validated by comparing them with the experimental campaign in the low-mid frequency range. The study provides valuable insights into the behaviour of sound waves in a cavitation tunnel and the influence of various factors, which can help design and optimize cavitation tunnels and related experiments.