Model-Prototype Conformance of a Submerged Vortex in the Intake of a Vertical Turbine Pump

by K. Warren Frizell, (A.M.ASCE), Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Fundamentals and Advancements in Hydraulic Measurements and Experimentation

Abstract:

Submerged vortices are commonly found in sump intakes of vertical turbine pumps. These vortices are known to cause increased vibration and at times degrade pump performance. Approach flow conditions and sump and pump bell geometry are very critical in the formation of submerged vortices. Scale model tests are a common method used to evaluate the presence of free-surface and submerged vortices in pumping plants. While scale effects in reproducing free-surface vortices are fairly well documented, scale effects involving modeling of submerged vortices are somewhat more unknown due to the difficulty in actually observing a prototype vortex. This paper will discuss the comparison between measurements and observations of a 1:8.74 geometric scale model of Twin Peaks Pumping Plant and the prototype operation.

Subject Headings: Vortices | Water intakes | Pumping stations | Submerging | Scale models | Turbines | Geometrics

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