Numerical optimization of an axial propeller runner for small-hydro power application

The aim of the paper is to optimize the axial propeller turbine operating with a gross head of 3~6 m and flow rate of 10 ㎥/s. Three stages of optimization are executed for the turbine with the geometrical modifications by varying the number of runner blade, pitch angle and 3 different shapes of blade profiles. This study has attempted to acquire basic design data, viz., the output power, efficiency and pressure distribution to suggest the sound method of optimization. 3~5 blade, 25°~40° of pitch angle and NACA4306 and NACA4312, pump-based, thin foil blade profiles are examined to acquire the characteristics of performance. This study is executed through a commercial finite element analysis (FEA) package, ANSYS, and CFX. The results reveal the flow characteristics and suggest an optimizing method for axial propeller turbine.