Numerical simulation of the inlet channel geometry influence in the torque generated at the gravitation water vortex turbine

The gravitational water vortex turbine is presented as an alternative for electric power generation both low head and flow conditions, additionally it easy cost to implement maintenance. However, the experimentally reported efficiencies motivate scientific community develop new geometries in order improve its performance. First, not clear how efficiency of obtained second, all studies report it. mainly made up a tank, rotor generator. geometry tank important because stabilizes fluid this component that induced, which determines, added other factors like runner, global turbine. primary purpose study compare numerically torque generated at six (6) geometrical configurations basin inlet channel Gravitational Vortex Turbine (GVT) with Savonius rotor. was developed ANSYS® CFX, where transient state VOF model configured BSL K − ω turbulence discretization control volume ICEM module. highest 0.553 Nm 25 rpm trapezoidal curved geometry, increasing respect conventional Square 2.73 %. increase tangential velocity contributes positively generation, consequently, obtained. On hand, design considerably affects performance GVT, may or take advantage kinetic energy