Turbine Arrangement With Oscillating Flow Annulus For Low Volumetric Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current turbine designs face challenges in improving efficiency, particularly for low volumetric flow applications with low root reaction, as existing optimizations such as leakage reduction and blade configuration modifications have limitations.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an oscillating flow annulus with guides of reduced heights creates a stepped flow path in selected axial stages of the turbine, featuring varying hub radii and runner heights to enhance efficiency, with specific geometric configurations and deflection angles optimized for both gas and steam turbines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional turbine blade configurations are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but efficiency improvement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies 3D stacking, twisting, bowing and leaning to the turbine blades, transforming them from static straight blades to dynamic three-dimensional curved blades. This enables the blades to adapt to varying flow conditions at different radial positions, improving efficiency by optimizing the angle of attack and reducing losses across the entire blade span.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements different blade configurations at different radial positions along the blade span. The blades feature varying stack angles, twist angles, bowing, and leaning parameters from root to tip, allowing each section to be optimized for local flow conditions rather than using a uniform configuration throughout.
2Productivity
If leakage reduction measures are implemented, then efficiency is improved, but applicability to low volumetric flow applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the turbine into multiple axial stages with distinct guide and runner blade configurations. Each stage can be independently optimized for specific flow conditions, allowing the turbine to efficiently handle low volumetric flow applications while maintaining overall system performance through staged expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes parameters such as stage reaction degree, blade aspect ratio, and stacking angles specifically for low volumetric flow conditions. By adjusting these parameters across different stages and radial positions, the turbine achieves high efficiency in low flow applications where traditional designs would underperform.
3Productivity
If optimized blade configurations are applied, then efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex three-dimensional blade shapes are manufactured using advanced techniques such as 5-axis CNC machining, automated fiber placement, or investment casting with complex molds. These manufacturing methods enable the production of twisted, bowed, and leaned blades with precise geometric control, making previously unmanufacturable efficient blade designs economically viable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances turbine efficiency by optimizing the flow path and reducing losses, achieving improved performance in low volumetric flow conditions while maintaining structural integrity and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine for generating work by a stagewise expansion of a gas
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a turbine for generating work by a stagewise expansion of a gas, such as steam wherein a downstream stage guide average height is less than an adjacent upstream stage runner average height.