CFD simulation data of a pico-hydro turbine

Abstract

This paper presents the data obtained from the CFD simulation of a pico-hydraulic turbine designed for electric power generation in residential units. Pico-hydro turbine systems are a booming option that seeks to take advantage of small waterfalls and/or streams to generate electricity in a clean way. The data collection process was carried out through simulations developed to a model created in SolidWorks, with the help of the ANSYS CFX software in which the solver configuration was adjusted to the parameters suggested by the manufacturer's manuals (ANSYS) and the boundary conditions were determined based on the current regulatory standards for drinking water systems for Colombia. These boundary conditions influence the operation of the turbine, which is why three runs were carried out corresponding to three points of operation and to obtain the output pressure, the fall of the turbine and the hydraulic power that the device would utilise. The data, acquired in a strict manner, offers potential support for further research in the area and the possible manufacture of prototypes. It also encourages the development of simulations and laboratory tests of this type of device in which geometric factors or operating conditions could be modified.

Keywords

• CFD Simulation
• Pico-hydro
• Renewable energy
• Hydraulic turbine