3D Modelling and CFD Analysis of Last Stage Blade Rotors of a Low Pressure (LP) Steam Turbine in SolidWorks
Power generation in Trinidad and Tobago accounts for 19% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Trinidad and Tobago is committed to conditionally reducing its cumulative carbon emissions by 15% in the power generation, transport and industrial sectors by 2030 (RIC, 2018).
Increasing thermal efficiency of steam turbines can provide a major reduction in emissions. Researchers have relentlessly addressed methods of increasing efficiencies of high, medium and now low pressure stages of the steam turbine.
The last stage rotor blades of the LP turbine has drawn significant attention in the quest for maximizing efficiency. Last stage blades have become longer, up to 60 inches or more and have taken on unconventional shapes to allow for aerodynamic performance as flow transitions from subsonic to transonic.
Titanium alloys have started to replace typical stainless steel blades as these materials have higher strength to weight ratio. Camber, pressure and suction sides of blade profile were modelled using Bezier curves of 5, 6 and 7 control points. Parametric optimization of a three blade cascade resulted in zero camber in the y-axis for third control point, maximum diameter of Ø25mm and pitch of 70mm for a three blade cascade with 162.5mm cord length. Flow analysis of 100 free standing, 54 inch blades at optimum 20° attack angle with inlet steam at 12000Pa, 323K and mass flow rate of 249.34kg/s produced 5.54MW of power at 60Hz. Thermal efficiency was found to be 63.48%. Further simulation on blade twist and bend can result in higher efficiency.
Keywords: steam turbine, parametric optimization, flow analysis.
Figure 1. Parametric Optimization of Airfoil Profile
Figure 2. Flow Analysis of Three Blade Cascade
Figure 3. Flow Analysis of LSB Rotor
Investigating the Efficacy of the Therapeutic Exercise Contour Support (TECS )(Patent Pending US2019/02626559 A1, Industrial Design TT/D/2016/00011)
The therapeutic exercise contour support (TECS), which is made of high density flexible foam can either be used on traditional bench press equipment or as a stand-alone apparatus.
The TECS provides support for the neck, upper body and lower back when performing bench press exercise. The TECS has a distinctive contoured surface that elevates the spine and allows the user to have a natural scapula-humeral rhythm when performing the bench press at inclined, horizontal and declined inclinations. An adjustable ergonomic neck foam support can be attached to the main contour support to maintain proper cervical curvature. The TECS can also be used for therapy by placing it on a horizontal surface and then lying on it in a supine position. This helps the scapulae to retract as they should, which may assist in alleviating pain in the upper back due to poor posture and muscle imbalance.
As there are several applications of the TECS, further subject testing is ongoing.
Electrode Placement for Electromyogarphic Study
The Therapeutic Exercise Contour Support
Showcasing the TECS at Gulf City
Kinematic Analysis of the Power Snatch and Power Clean Lifts for Beginning Olympic Weightlifters
This research will examine bar path kinematics and angular kinematics of the lower limb of beginning Olympic weightlifters.
The objectives of this study is to determine the mechanical work, the power output, and the angular kinematics of the lower limb and the linear kinematics of the barbell during the power snatch and power clean exercises from the hang position.
This data can then be used to coach beginners on proper technique of the power snatch and power clean exercises by correcting form at early stages when the neuromuscular system is at a highly adaptive state.
Examining Bar Path
Delivering Research Training Workshop at UTT
Optimizing the Filtration Process for a Potable Water Treatment Plant
Trinidad and Tobago is a twin island developing nation, where the delivery of safe drinking water specifically to rural communities has been a major concern. Most of these areas do not have the luxury of a constant supply of potable water due to several constraints such as geographic location, rainfall, frequent breakdown of local water treatment plants and small, scattered population density.
An alternative to the economically unfeasible installation of long treated water distribution lines is being recommended.
This system of a working module of Aquifer Water Treatment Plant will deliver safe potable water to these rural areas and uses its raw water supply from underground aquifers which is normally found to be cleaner in comparison with river or lake water although its iron content is high.
A prototype was developed by a group of our BASc students. However, a better filtration system can enhance the purification process.
Potable Water Treatment Plant
Mechanizing Agricultural Processes for Maximizing Food Production
With the current downturn in the energy sector and the need for food security, the Utilities Engineering Unit in collaboration with the Biosciences, Agriculture and Food Technologies (BAFT) programme seek to mechanize specific agricultural processes in food processing for adding food value.
Initially, three projects were identified as follows:
- Cassava press/peeling machine;
- Water-bath pasteurisation machine;
- Root crop (sweet potatoes and dasheen) slicer.
Research and development is ongoing.
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