Numerical Simulation of 3-Dimensional Flow in Last Two Stages of Air-cooled Steam Turbines

Flow in last two stages of air-cooled steam turbines under varying load conditions is being studied with the help of numerical 3-dimensional viscous flow simulation methods. The laws that govern variations, like efficiency and blade's height, at which flow separation occurs, are being studied; specially analyzed in detail were the 3-dimensional flow fields under design and low volume flow conditions. Understanding of the particularities of flow conditions in the last stages under varying turbine load conditions are gained by an analysis, which may serve as a reference for design and optimization of the last stage blades of air cooled steam turbines. Figs 8 and refs 5.