Experimental and numerical study on gravitational water vortex power plant for small water bodies

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of a newly designed Gravitational Water Vortex Power Plant (GWVHP), utilizing both Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental studies to assess its performance characteristics. The GWVHP was developed using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations, incorporating components such as a water pump, primary water tank, secondary collection tank, channel, and rotor blades. Focusing on the crucial interplay between flow rate, torque, and efficiency, key factors in evaluating renewable energy systems, the study reveals notable findings. Simulation results showcase the plant achieving a peak torque of 6 at a flow rate of 2 m3/min, with experimental results closely trailing at 5.7 under identical conditions. Similarly, the simulation and experimental data both indicate maximum efficiencies of 58 % and 56 %, respectively, at the same flow rate. The novelty lies in the comparative analysis of simulation and experimental outcomes, exposing slight deviations attributed to factors such as modeling uncertainties and experimental setup variations. Addressing a critical gap in vortex basin and turbine optimization research, this paper introduces a novel approach by utilizing CFD analysis to experimentally validate the GWVHP's performance. Additionally, the study addresses the limitation of lab-scale models by simulating an actual-scale model, offering insights into scalability and reliability. The practical design of the GWVHP, tailored for real-site applications in small water bodies, enhances the applicability of the findings and contributes to advancing GWVHP technology for renewable energy. This multi-faceted approach underscores the potential of GWVHPs for practical and scalable renewable energy solutions.