The state-of-art of design and research for Pelton turbine casing, weight estimation, counterpressure operation and scientific challenges

Abstract

The Pelton turbine is the most widespread and efficient impulse hydropower turbine. The Pelton casing is a static, but key component: the internal hydrodynamic phenomena affect the performance of the hydropower plant, the vibration of the equipment and water quality (dissolved oxygen downstream). However, the literature information is very fragmented and not well organized, so that the design is generally based on empirical rules and on proper know-how of hydropower companies. In this paper, the state-of-the-art of the Pelton casing is reviewed and organized under three macro areas: hydraulics, mechanics (vibrations and weight) and aeration. The preliminary design procedure is described and discussed in light of recent scientific results, and the open questions and research challenges are highlighted. Innovative case studies are described (including counterpressure operation) and a dataset of installed casings (not available in literature) is elaborated to derive an empirical equation to estimate the casing weight. The efficiency can be improved by 3% by an optimal fluid dynamic design and a better understanding of the internal hydrodynamics. Proper inserts can improve the hydraulic efficiency by 2%, reduce the weight (by about 12%) and better bear the vibrations. Several scientific questions are still open, and a better understanding of the fluid structure interaction is needed to improve efficiency, operation and water quality.

Review on erosion phenomenon, maintenance, and financial calculation of lifetime as an asset for Pelton turbines

“…Turbine casing has also been studied and efficiency improvements of 3% have been made in recent years with the use of modern research tools. The efficiency of the turbine also depends on the aerodynamics of the casing, deflectors, and injector covers [29]. However, major factors involved in the design of a turbine comprise the position of the jet, flow in the area of the lip, bend radius, and weight of the turbine [30].…”

Selección de un convertidor de energía de las olas de tipo oscilante y un sistema de toma de fuerza para el aprovechamiento de la energía undimotriz de Colombia

“…Una de las ventajas de estos sistemas que pueden ser llamados híbridos es que disminuyen los problemas en cuanto a almacenamiento de energía. Sin embargo, debido a que, los sistemas de generación que cuentan con turbinas hidráulicas como la Pelton, requieren de construcción de obras civiles para captar el fluido buscando llevarlo a grandes alturas y sistemas de tuberías [32]. Estos montajes pueden ser más complejos y aumentan los costos del sistema en general, además requieren de mayor mantenimiento y conocimientos técnicos en comparación con los sistemas de generación con el dispositivo WEC únicamente.…”