Pressure characteristics and force analysis of pump turbine in variable-pressure outlet pump mode

Abstract

A nonstationary numerical simulation was performed on the outlet pressure stabilization and periodic variable-pressure condition of a pump turbine model in the pumping condition. The objective was to dissect the flow mechanism and force characteristics of components within the outlet variable-pressure pumping condition of the pump turbine and to probe into the stability of the pump turbine under such working conditions. Additionally, the alterations in the runner state, pressure distribution, pressure pulsation, as well as the forces exerted on the runner and top cover during this process were analyzed. The results demonstrated that the internal pressure and flow pattern of the pump turbine under variable-pressure conditions fluctuated periodically in accordance with the outlet pressure. An augmented frequency of the outlet pressure variation led to an elevation in the amplitude of the internal pressure change. Nevertheless, a hysteresis difference was observed in the changes of the flow channel pressure and flow pattern. The pressure pulsation in the runner area was influenced by the runner rotation, static and dynamic interferences in the lobe-free area, and the unsteady flow induced by the alterations in the outlet pressure.