Automated cavitation processing

An apparatus for treating a surface of an object, comprising:

• a carrier configured to transport the object through a treatment zone;
• nozzle devices, wherein each nozzle device is positioned to deliver a cavitating jet into the treatment zone, wherein each of the nozzle devices includes a first channel and a second channel concentric with the first channel, and wherein the nozzle devices comprise:
• a first array positioned on a first side of the treatment zone;
• and
• a second array positioned on a second side of the treatment zone opposite the first side;
• a fluid source comprising a tank of water and a supply of abrasive media;
• a first pump connected to the fluid source and configured to deliver water at a first pressure to the first channel of the nozzle devices;
• a second pump connected to the fluid source and configured to deliver water at a second pressure to the second channel of the nozzle devices, wherein the second pressure is lower than the first pressure;
• and
• a third pump connected to the fluid source and configured to deliver water and abrasive media at a third pressure to the nozzle devices, wherein the third pressure is lower than the first pressure;
• and
• hoses configured to carry fluid from the fluid source to the nozzle devices;
• wherein the apparatus is configured to switch between:
• a cavitation peening mode, in which the first channel of the nozzle devices delivers water into the treatment zone, and the second channel of the nozzle devices delivers water into the treatment zone;
• and
• a cavitation abrasive surface finishing mode, in which the first channel of the nozzle devices delivers water into the treatment zone, and the second channel of the nozzle devices delivers water and abrasive media into the treatment zone.