A study on surface topography in cavitation erosion tests of AlSi10Mg

Cavitation erosion causes serious problems for hydraulic machinery. This study focuses on the influence of surface topography on the cavitation erosion rate of AlSi10Mg using an ASTM G134 test rig. Polishing, grinding, turning, and laser texturing are employed to finish the surfaces. The obtained cavitation erosion rates are presented, and the surface topography, cross-section, and surface parameters are analyzed. The results indicate that the laser textured surface demonstrates a higher cavitation erosion rate than other surfaces. Certain patterns on the surface affect the deforming behaviors at the acceleration period of cavitation erosion progresses. 3D surface parameters, Ssk and Sku, can be employed for predicting the time required for removing the original surface finishing marks.