Effect of trailing edge thickness variations on flow parameters in hydraulic turbines

Hydropower is one of the most important renewable sources of the world‟s electricity supply and there is still a considerable untapped potential in many areas. Hydro turbines are grouped under two main categories; Impulse turbines (e.g. Pelton and Turgo turbines) and Reaction turbines (e.g. Francis, Kaplan and Bulb turbines). The Francis turbine is used where a large flow and a high or medium head of water is involved. The water enters hydraulic turbines is subjected to changes in pressure and velocity. Such variations may result in changes in flow characteristics with consequences on turbine performance and useful life.The main objective of the present study is to investigate the effect of trailing edge thickness (h) variations on flow parameters in Francis turbines. To aim this purpose, velocity magnitude, turbulent kinetic energy, and turbulent Intensity for six various trailing edge thicknesses (i.e. between 0.8h and 1.5h) for Francis turbine runners are considered using CFD simulations.Keywords: Trailing Edge Thickness, Velocity Magnitude, Turbulent Kinetic Energy, Turbulent Intensity.

Effect of trailing edge thickness variations on flow parameters in hydraulic turbines Keywords:

Trailing Edge Thickness , Velocity Magnitude , Turbulent Kinetic Energy , Turbulent Intensity