What is the primary cause of erosion created by cavitation?

Cavitation erosion primarily occurs due to the phenomenon of fluid dynamics where vapor bubbles form in areas of low pressure and subsequently collapse in regions of high pressure. This rapid collapse generates shock waves that can exert significant forces on surrounding surfaces, leading to material erosion.

The process is driven by changes in pressure rather than the temperature of the fluid, solid particles, or chemical interactions. Specifically, when fluid moves from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure area, the sudden drop in pressure can cause the fluid to vaporize and form bubbles. These bubbles can travel and eventually collapse violently near solid boundaries, creating intense localized impacts that erode material over time.

This understanding highlights the critical importance of managing pressure conditions in fluid systems to minimize cavitation and its associated erosive effects.