Pumps as Turbines (PATs) by Analysis with CFD Models

Pumps as turbines (PATs) are the typical solution for electrification using micro hydropower plants (MHP) in rural sector. Other engineering applications where lately use of PATs have increased irrigation, water supply, and energy recovery systems due to their availability, short delivery time, long service life, economic feasibility, construction, maintenance advantages. However, selecting suitable pump(s) is difficult because manufacturers only provide performance curves when operating pump mode; therefore, there no universal method predict that issue. For this reason, theoretical, analytical, experimental, numerical simulation research been made these PATs' performance. The present paper analyzes with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) based on advanced research. aim, information from a wide range types pumps different rotation speeds was classified examine case approaches, computational domains, mesh generation, boundary conditions, optimization elements, CFD package used establish effectiveness tool find characteristics which not enough investigated at present. Most studies simulations ANSYS code K-? turbulence closure model, presented adequate results. Finally, shows analysis were successfully carried out determine direct reverse mode, improving certain components conducting more profound specific issues.