Numerical study on the optimization of two-dimensional valve structures based on LES for cavitation noise suppression

Cavitation, a complex fluid dynamic phenomenon, significantly reduces the efficiency, performance, and service life of two-dimensional valves. To address cavitation-induced noise in the pilot stage of a two-dimensional valve, we designed a drag-reducing V-groove structure on the valve sleeve opening. Using numerical simulation methods, we compared the cavitation flow field characteristics before and after optimizing the valve sleeve structure. The results demonstrate that the V-groove opening effectively suppresses both the initiation and development of cavitation. Specifically, the cavitation inhibition efficiency exceeds 95% at small valve openings and remains significant (37.9% at 80% opening). Further analysis of the noise spectrum at monitoring points along the valve sleeve chute revealed substantial noise reduction: 6 dB in the cavitation-intensive rear section, 3 dB at the mid-chute region, and 2 dB at the model outlet. However, while the slotted valve sleeve successfully mitigates cavitation noise, the V-groove structure introduces self-excited noise at a characteristic frequency of 1100 Hz.