Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of a Steam Power Plant Low-Pressure Turbine Downward Exhaust Hood

• Published in: Journal of engineering for gas turbines and power 1996-01, Vol.118 (1), p.214-224
• Main Authors: Tindell, R. H, Alston, T. M, Sarro, C. A, Stegmann, G. C, Gray, L, Davids, J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Exact sciences and technology; Installations for energy generation and conversion: thermal and electrical energy; Installations for industrial steam generation
• ISSN: 0742-4795; 1528-8919
• DOI: 10.1115/1.2816543

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods are applied to the analysis of a low-pressure turbine exhaust hood at a typical steam power generating station. A Navier-Stokes solver, capable of modeling all the viscous terms, in a Reynolds-averaged formulation, was used. The work had two major goals. The first was to develop a comprehensive understanding of the complex three-dimensional flow fields that exist in the exhaust hood at representative operating conditions. The second was to evaluate the relative benefits of a flow guide modification to optimize performance at a selected operating condition. Also, the influence of simulated turbine discharge characteristics, relative to uniform hood entrance conditions, was evaluated. The calculations show several interesting and possibly unique results. They support use of an integrated approach to the design of turbine exhaust stage blading and hood geometry for optimum efficiency.