Variable-Speed Propeller Turbine for Small Hydropower Applications

Eva Bílková (), Jiří Souček, Martin Kantor, Roman Kubíček and Petr Nowak
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Eva Bílková: Hydraulic Structures Department, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Czech Technical University, 166 29 Prague, Czech Republic
Jiří Souček: Hydraulic Structures Department, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Czech Technical University, 166 29 Prague, Czech Republic
Martin Kantor: Institute of Machines and Power Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University J. E. Purkyně, 400 96 Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic
Roman Kubíček: Elzaco spol. s r.o., 787 01 Šumperk, Czech Republic
Petr Nowak: Hydraulic Structures Department, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Czech Technical University, 166 29 Prague, Czech Republic

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 9, 1-14

Abstract: Standard technical solutions are not cost-effective for many small hydropower sites. This study aims to demonstrate the workflow for the tailor-made variable-speed axial propeller turbine and provide proof of this concept. The turbine is designed to meet the site’s specific space limitations and operating range needs. The runner shape is adjusted to the variable-speed operation and defined hydraulic profile using a parametric geometry model and CFD-based optimization. The variable-speed propeller turbine shows excellent flow control while keeping the mechanical design simple. The tailor-made approach minimizes construction costs using existing structures and is highly suitable for mini-hydropower applications. The prototype—an atypical turbine designed for highly restricted space and installed on-site—serves as proof of the concept. The findings on the design of axial variable-speed turbines are presented.

Keywords: axial propeller turbine; variable-speed; optimization; tailor-made design; CFD; CAESES (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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