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Method and apparatus for optimizing performance of a kaplan turbine

  • US 5,754,446 A
  • Filed: 08/19/1996
  • Issued: 05/19/1998
  • Est. Priority Date: 08/19/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for optimizing performance of a Kaplan turbine power generating unit, the unit including wicket gates movable to desired positions and runner blades movable to desired tilt positions, the runner blades being coupled through a drive shaft to an electrical power generator, the method comprising the steps of:

  • (a) monitoring a set of operating parameter levels including desired power generation level, flow rate through the unit, head across the unit and at least one other operating parameter capable of affecting efficiency of the turbine unit;

    (b) comparing the monitored levels to reference levels of the same parameters;

    (c) based upon a predetermined relationship between the reference levels and the monitored levels, identifying whether an optimization search should be performed for gate and blade position settings for the set of operating parameter levels;

    (d) when the decision in step (c) is affirmative, performing a search identifying optimal gate and blade positions for the set of operating parameter levels;

    (e) storing the optimal gate and blade positions identified by the set of operating parameters in an N-dimensional optimal virtual cam matrix reference, where N is the number of operating parameters in the set of operating parameters; and

    (f) maintaining the gates and blades in positions identified by the matrix reference.

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