Numerical optimization of guide vanes and reducer in pump running in turbine mode

The main limitation of centrifugal pump running in turbine mode is lower efficiency at part load operating conditions as compared to conventional hydro turbines. To enhance the utilization of pump as turbine (PAT) in mini/micro hydropower plants, it is very important to improve its performance with some low cost modifications. The part load efficiency of PAT can be improved by guiding the flow at part load by installing the movable guide vanes. However, to avoid the higher cost of movable guide vanes, it was proposed to install fixed guide vanes. The existing volute casing of centrifugal pump was not having sufficient space for provision of guide vane mechanism. Hence, to create an additional space the existing impeller of 250 mm dia. was replaced by 200 mm dia. impeller which has facilitated an additional space for installation of guide vanes. To determine the optimum position of fixed guide vanes, CFD analysis of casing was carried out with NACA-4418 profile by varying the guide vane angles between 45° to 80°. The numerical simulations were carried out using Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations with standard k-ε turbulence model under steady state conditions. In addition, it was required to place the reducer between the service pump and PAT as the pipe dia. at service pump outlet was 5” and at PAT inlet was 3”. To optimize the shape and location of reducer between service pump and PAT, CFD analysis was performed by considering two different reducers at different locations. PAT with 200 mm dia. impeller and 8 numbers of fixed guide vanes provided at 75° angle led to improved performance of PAT. Also the long reducer provided at the inlet of PAT was subjected to less head drop in the piping system. © 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of the Institute of Technology Nirma University, Ahmedabad.