Particle Image Velocimetry Test for the Inter-Blade Vortex in a Francis Turbine

Hydropower units are usually operated in non-design conditions because of power grid requirements. In a partial-load condition, an inter-blade vortex phenomenon occurs between the runner blades of a Francis turbine, causing pressure pulsation and unit vibration, which hinder the safe and stable operation of power stations. However, the mechanism through which the inter-blade vortex generation occurs is not entirely clear. In this study, a specific model of the Francis turbine was used to investigate and visually observe the generation of the blade vortex in Francis turbines in both the initial inter-blade and vortex development zones. Particle image velocimetry was used for this purpose. In addition, we determined the variation law of the inter-blade vortex in the Francis turbine. We found that the size and strength of the inter-blade vortex depend on the unit speed of the turbine. The higher the unit speed is, the stronger the inter-blade vortex becomes. We concluded that the inter-blade vortex of such turbines originates from the pressure surface or secondary flow and stall of the blade at the inlet side of the runner at high unit speeds, and also from the backflow zone of the suction surface of the blade at low unit speeds.