Análise fluidodinâmica computacional da válvula borboleta de uma turbina Francis

Abstract

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis has high applicability in the industrial sector as it enables the development of faster, more efficient and more accurate production processes at a lower cost, when compared to experimental analyses. This tool is used to numerically simulate the behavior of systems involving fluid flow and, in recent years, it has proven to be a practical and modern tool in cutting-edge fluid dynamics research. In this context, the opportunity of this study is to analyze the internal flow in a butterfly valve of a Francis turbine through computational numerical simulation and thus consolidate the potential of fluid mechanics theories and machine design using CAD (Computer Aided Design) and CFD. The DSR (Design Science Research) methodological approach is used to guide the development of the work. Following this methodology, simulations were carried out on an initial model of the butterfly valve and after evaluating the simulation results, modifications were made to this geometry based on the theory of fluid mechanics so that a new simulation could be generated. This iterative process of simulations and modifications took place until a geometry was reached that presented internal flow with less pressure drop and reduced regions of recirculation.