Investigation on the Performance of Draft Tube by Numerical and Experimental Approach: A Review

In order to produce hydroelectric power and for other hydraulic applications, axial-flow water turbines like the Kaplan turbine are widely used. It is a well-known axial-flow water turbine noted for its effectiveness and adaptability in obtaining renewable energy from sources with low to medium head waters. The practical use of performance improvements is illustrated through case studies of successful Kaplan turbine installations with optimized draft tube designs. The advantages for business and the environment of adopting these developments into hydroelectric power plants and renewable energy initiatives are also covered. The investigation of different draft tube configurations, including variations in size, shape, and curvature, is done by numerical simulations. This study examines the effects of various design variables on pressure recovery and turbine effectiveness. The case study in this paper shows the application of CFD-based draught tube optimisation on a 1-kW Kaplan turbine system. The findings show a significant boost in turbine efficiency, demonstrating the value of the CFD technique as a potent tool for design advancements. The kinetic energy at the turbine runner level is affected by adjusting the various geometrical configurations of a unique draft tube. A suitable draft tube design to generate maximum pressure has been anticipated based on the investigation. The shape of the draft tube parameter was identified by using Taguchi analysis method, and CFD analysis was made to find out the pressure and velocity of the draft tube.