CFD Modeling of a Small Hydro Kaplan Turbine
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Date
2021-05
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Publisher
The Ohio State University
Abstract
Although hydropower is already a significant contributor to energy generation in the US, there are still ways for it to expand. One of these ways is to enable existing small, low-head dams and weirs to generate energy through Kaplan-style turbines. This project develops a 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of Rickly Hydro's 92L32 PROPEL, Kaplan-style Turbine to optimize performance in low-head applications. This CFD model will help to save time and cost for the optimization of the turbine's geometry and operation. The flow through the turbine is simulated using ANSYS Fluent under various operating conditions to provide results over the turbine's entire operating space. The main set of simulations look at the transient effects of the turbine blades rotating at different speeds. Torque and other flow field data values are presented. These results are then compared to experimental and field results obtained from the manufacturer to validate the CFD model. Multiple simulations are conducted in order to predict the performance under different operating conditions. Future work for this project will involve manipulating the geometry of the turbine to optimize its performance based off the operating conditions given. Specifically, propeller and wicket gate angles can be adjusted to optimize performance under certain flow rates.
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Keywords
CFD, Hydropower, Kaplan Turbine, Rickly