1. The relative cavitation resistance of metals depends on the intensity of cavitation. As the cavitation intensity decreases in connection with an increase of the effect of the corrosion factor, the erosion coefficient Ke of carbon and low-alloy steels increases tens of times with respect to stainless steel. 2. The intensity of the cavitation conditions occurring during operation of hydraulic machines and on laboratory test stands should be evaluated on the basis of the value of Ke. In this case, the larger the values of Ke, the smaller the cavitation intensity. For example, under conditions of the turbines of the Bratsk station (increased cavitation intensity), where v=4 mm/yr, Ke=3–5, and under the operating conditions of the turbines of the Volga stations (moderate cavitation intensity), where v=0.4 mm/yr, Ke=17–29. 3. It is recommended to check the correspondence of the characteristics of the cavitation resistance of metal in laboratory tests to the operating conditions of hydraulic machines by comparing the value of Ke (obtained for a known grade of carbon steel in comparison with stainless steel) with the value of Ke for the same such steels obtained under the operating conditions of the hydraulic machine.