TITLE:
Multiphysical Simulation of Francis Turbines: Influence of Material Choices across Variable Operating Conditions
AUTHORS:
Jean Pierre Ngoma, Josue Ariel Mbe’a Nguema, Wilba Christophe Kikmo, Andre Abanba
KEYWORDS:
Francis Turbines, Multiphysics Modelling, Advanced Materials, Hydraulic Performance, Numerical Optimisation
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Power and Energy Engineering,
Vol.13 No.8,
August
25,
2025
ABSTRACT: The present work provides an exhaustive examination of the impact that physical mechanical thermal and tribological properties of materials have on the operational performance of Francis turbines. A meticulous multiphysics modelling approach achieves this by being implemented with utmost rigour and precision under various operating conditions. Primary objectives of this study involve characterising effects of material choices on energy efficiency and mechanical stability under intense hydrodynamic stresses quite thoroughly. Methodology relies heavily on coupled implementation of computational fluid dynamics and finite element modelling alongside thermo-mechanical simulations in a virtual environment reproducing actual turbine operating conditions fairly accurately. The study highlights differential impact of various metal alloys and composite materials on parameters like local pressure wear vibrations and energy dissipation rather significantly. Findings suggest titanium-based alloys and ceramic matrix composites strike an optimal balance between erosion resistance and thermal stability remarkably well. These materials significantly boost hydraulic efficiency and slash maintenance costs substantially over time. Pivotal innovation lies in concurrently integrating multiple physical models thereby facilitating holistic predictive evaluation of materials in fairly realistic geometric configurations. This pioneering work substantially paves the way towards highly optimised design engineering of next generation hydraulic turbines with greatly enhanced performance.