Performance Evaluation and Process Optimization of a Throttle Valve–Based Hydrodynamic Cavitator Using Potassium Iodide Dosimetry
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52151/jae2026633.2021Keywords:
cavitation number, cavitational yield, hydrodynamic cavitation, iodine liberation, throttle valve cavitatorAbstract
This study evaluates a laboratory-scale throttle valve–based hydrodynamic cavitator, which differs from conventional venturi or orifice cavitators by enabling dynamic control of cavitation intensity through adjustment of the throttle valve opening rather than relying on fixed geometric constrictions. This design provides greater operational flexibility and improved control over pressure drop and bubble collapse characteristics. Potassium iodide (KI) was used as a model compound to investigate the influence of the key process parameters on cavitation characteristics and to determine the optimum operating conditions of the cavitator. A three-level full factorial experimental design (3³) was employed to evaluate the effects of process parameters and to enable estimation of interaction and quadratic effects for the development of second-order regression models. The selected variables were throttle valve open area (22%, 42%, and 62%), number of passes (5, 10, and 15), and downstream static head (2, 2.5, and 3 m). Cavitation number, cavitational yield (kg J-1), and product outlet temperature (°C) were considered as response parameters. The optimum operating conditions were identified as a 22% throttle valve open area, 5 passes, and a downstream static head of 3 m. Under these conditions, the cavitation number, cavitational yield, and product outlet temperature were 0.5, 2.76 × 10⁻10 kg J-1, and 33.1°C, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that all selected process parameters had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the response variables. Model validation showed good predictive performance, with signed percentage prediction errors ranging from −4.16% to 13.2%, confirming the adequacy of the developed models.
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