Numerical modelling of hydrodynamic blades and floating stability of micro hydropower station (Part 2)

Abstract

A new design and functional concept of a hydraulic flow turbine with vertical axis and individualized orientation of the hydrodynamic blades were proposed and elaborated. In order to maximize the flowing water energy conversion efficiency the hydrodynamic profile of the turbine blades is optimized taking into account the turbine dimensions, angle of attack and exploitation conditions. Since conversion efficiency highly depends on the hydrodynamic profile of the blades, it is important to minimize the deformations of the blades due to hydrostatic pressure and applied forces. Thus, there were performed deformation and stress analysis of the submersed hollow blade with metallic cover, blade injected with polyurethane foam with metallic cover and blade injected with polyurethane foam and composite material cover. Using the numerical results a suitable blade design, resistance structure and manufacturing technology are proposed. Also, the floating stability of 3- and 5-blades hydrodynamic rotor was analyzed. Based on carried out research, there have been elaborated two typo-dimensions of hydraulic turbines with 3 and 5 blades and optimal orientation of the blades with respect to the water stream direction. There were proposed, four different configurations of floatable micro hydropower stations for conversion of river kinetic energy into electric or mechanic energy.