CFD Base Hydro-Turbine Optimization: Simulation of Flow Over a Rotating Blade Using Immersed-Boundary Method Available to Purchase

The shape of the hydro-turbine blade has significant effects on turbine efficiency. In this paper, CFD base shape optimization was performed to assist in the design of Gulfstream Technologies GreenFlow Turbines™. A novel immersed-boundary method (1) was used to simulate flow over a rotating blade. The method was validated previously using literature data and was proven to be accurate and efficient for simulation of flow over moving objects. Several different blade shapes were tested, as well as the pivot locations of the blade. The complex flow characteristics were revealed from the simulation results. The time-histories of force distributions on the surfaces of the blades were recorded and analyzed to determine the optimal shape and pivot location which would result in generating the most power output.