Abstract
Pressurized rock traps are constructed in many hydropower plants to stop sand and gravel from being transported through the turbines. Pressurized rock traps are typically located in the downstream end of unlined headrace tunnels, where the tunnel itself may be one of the sediment sources. This state-of-the-art review presents an overview of research on pressurized rock traps from both publicly available sources and unpublished sources. Limited scientific literature exists on rock traps, and most of the existing literature has previously been unavailable for an international audience. Based on this review, it is concluded that pressurized rock traps should be built with the flow area and sediment deposition volume separated by plates or ribs. Without any separation measures, the sediments risk being re-entrained due to turbulence. This review is separated into three sections: (1) sediment problems and sources of sediments, (2) theory for pressurized rock traps, and (3) design of pressurized rock traps. The recommended design for new pressurized rock traps, including a design flow chart, is provided. Finally, a recommended solution for rebuilding existing pressurized rock traps with an open design into a closed design is also presented.
Highlights
It is concluded that pressurized rock traps should be built with the flow area and sediment deposition volume separated by plates or ribs
This paper presents a review of the design of pressurized rock traps with a special focus on the application within unlined hydropower tunnels
Pressurized rock traps are a necessary part of many hydropower schemes, but the recommended designs have not previously been systematically reviewed and summarized
Summary
Particles carried by the water utilized for hydropower production will over time, if they are not removed, cause damage to the turbines, e.g., [1,2]. It may be economically feasible to remove particles from the water upstream of the turbines. The particles can be removed through a sedimentation process in facilities commonly referred to as desilting basins, sand traps, or rock traps, depending on the size of the particles to be removed, and convention. This paper presents a review of the design of pressurized rock traps with a special focus on the application within unlined hydropower tunnels. The knowledge gained is used for a design methodology of rock traps
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