Abstract

Vortex formation due to power generation at hydropower dams could cause serious problems, and eliminating or reduction in its strength is one of the dam designer and manager duties. Therefore, the design and use of anti-vortex structures is usual. Design of an anti-vortex structure for each project is unique and it is therefore necessary to have knowledge about the performance of each one. In the present study, to evaluate the performance of various anti-vortex structures, physical model of power intakes were constructed and used. Intakes were projected in the reservoir and are current in many dam projects. For each anti-vortex, a comprehensive study was performed to determine better alternative in view of dissipating vortices. Experiments were conducted by recording class of vortices in different water elevations and with the current range of discharge for 13 anti-vortex alternatives. Experiments showed that the horizontal plate had better performance in eliminating vortices.

Key words: Anti-vortex structure, physical model, vortex, power generation, dam.