A numerical investigation into the effect of blade wrap angle on Splitter-Bladed Reversible Pump Turbines operating within the S-Shape Zone.

Abstract

This project investigates the impact of blade wrap angle on Splitter-Bladed on the flow and pressure field characteristics within a reversible pump turbine (RPT) using numerical simulations. RPTs are crucial in hydroelectric power generation due to their ability to operate in pumping, generating, and idle modes. The study aims to enhance the understanding of fluid dynamics in RPTs, focusing on how splitter blades and wrap angle can mitigate flow instabilities that lead to performance degradation, increased vibration, and mechanical wear. The research explores various wrap angle configurations and their effects on flow patterns and pressure distribution. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), the study identified optimal blade wrap angle on Splitter-Bladed Reversible Pump Turbines to minimize flow instability across operating points. For instance, blade wrap angleWA1 proved most effective at OP8, while a different blade wrap angle, WA2, minimized instability at OP 9. We found significant variations in flow patterns and pressure pulsations depending on operating conditions. Introducing splitter blades significantly reduced these instabilities.