Abstract
In this study, a numerical analysis of the inter-blade vortex characteristics of a Francis hydro turbine model was performed with various flow rate conditions in the operating range. The model turbine demonstrated notably different internal flow characteristics for different operating conditions. Particularly, an inter-blade vortex between the runner blade passages was observed at lower flow rate conditions. An inter-blade vortex can cause reduction in performance, and vibration and instability in the operation of a turbine system. Therefore, understanding inter-blade vortex characteristics is important for the safe and stable operation of turbines. To investigate internal flow and unsteady pressure characteristics, three-dimensional steady and unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes calculations using a shear stress transport turbulence model were performed with two-phase flow analysis. Inter-blade vortices were captured at the leading and trailing edges of the near runner hub between blade passages. This vortex region exhibited flow separation and lower velocity and contributed to decreased hydraulic performance and higher unsteady pressure characteristics.
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