Search

The growing demand for energy resources highlights the need to optimize traditional energy transformation systems. Pelton-type turbines, which are extensively used in micro-generation systems, can be designed using different methodologies, however, no consensus has been reached on which methodology guarantees greater efficiency. This work aims to compare the fluid-dynamic behavior at the first-time instants of Pelton turbines for micro-generation dimensioned by three different methodologies, namely, OLADE, Nechleba, and Thake, evaluating their capacity to overcome the initial torque. The results show that OLADE methodology leads to the best fluid-dynamic performance, whereas Nechleba fails to overcome the prescribed torque. In the Thake methodology, the impact of water on the back face of buckets and the formation of reverse pressure gradients can counter the turbine rotation.

The difficulty of delivering electrical power to rural areas motivated the researchers to explore more accessible power sources. Hydropower is considered a desirable option due to its sustainability and lower costs. Pelton turbines have been widely used in hydropower plants because of their low installation and maintenance costs. This study provides a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for Pelton turbine performance under various flow conditions. The model is based on the conservation of mass principle, Newton’s second law, and the first law of thermodynamics. It is used to predict the torque produced by a turbine at different rotational speeds. Previously published experimental results for the same turbine geometry and flow parameters were used to validate the model’s predictions. Validation revealed that the model can reproduce the experimental results. This provides the required robustness for its use as a tool for turbine design and modification.