Noise by cavitating tip vortex

The main issue with a cavitating tip vortex is that it generates noise.

  • The figure to the right shows a noise frequency spectrum from a cavitating propeller. Three sharp peaks of high amplitude is seen at lower frequencies which corresponds to the first, second and third blade passing frequencies.
  • To the right of the peaks a broad banded peak is seen which is typically cause the cavitating tip vortex.
  • If the tip vortex cavitation, which is the first cavitation to occur on a propeller, can be suppressed the radiated noise levels is kept low to higher ship speeds.