Enhancing the performance of Gravitational Water Vortex Turbine through Novel Blade Shape by Flow Simulation Analysis

Abstract

The demand for renewable energy is increasing in developing countries. Producing electricity from low-head micro-hydropower, especially using the gravitational water vortex method, attracts researchers worldwide. The present study investigates the detailed performance evaluation of single-stage Gravitational water vortex turbine assembled in a conical basin. A detailed numerical study has been conducted on five different runners' shapes. The three best runners were selected for experimentation based on the water pressure inserted on the blades. The effects of blade shape on the performance parameters of single-stage Gravitational water vortex turbine have been investigated, including rotational speed, brake torque, and mechanical efficiency. The results showed that the round-curved runner performed better at the various flow rate levels regarding rotational speed, brake torque, and mechanical efficiency. Moreover, round curved runners absorbed maximum torque, producing higher rotational speed and mechanical efficiency. The blades of the round curved runner give an efficiency of 48.02 %, while the blades of the conical J shape runner and helical runner give an efficiency of 42.17 % and 38.64 %, respectively.