Cavitation damage is a chronic problem leading to impaired pump performance, and eventual failure in a wide range of industrial applications. Pump manufacture rs recognize that cavitation damage can be minimized by utilizing advanced hydraulic designs and employing new state-of-the-art materials. The materials solution is particularly attractive because it does not involve detailed engineering studies, new pattern equipment, or long lead times. This paper traces the development, over the past decade, of a new class of cavitation resistant stainless steels. The properties and engineering characteristic: of these alloys are described, and several initial fjeld applications are discussed.
Keywords: cavitation, casting, pump, impeller, stainless steel.