CFD Analysis of gravity-fed drag-type in-pipe water turbine to determine the optimal deflector-to-turbine position

Abstract In-pipe hydroelectric power generation is a relatively new clean energy technology. This technology has been identified to be feasible after successful commercial installation in different parts of the world. Several researchers worldwide have studied optimal turbine type, number blades turbine, introduction suitable deflector, etc. for this However, effect turbine’s position relative upstream deflector on its performance not so far. research encompasses numerical study in-pipe identify from deflector. The was performed 160 mm diameter pipeline and 126 height. aims predict behavior larger pipelines based result obtained study. hollow-type drag at 6 rotational speeds 10 positions. results suggest that characteristics drag-type are erratic, thus leaving little space draw firm conclusion about performance. there an increase pressure difference, head, available theoretical with speed all It also found such turbines were generally more efficient slightly higher speeds, i.e. greater than 40 rad/s, distance 0.65D (where D pipe diameter) between deflector’s eye turbine.