Multidimensional Diagnostics of Turbine Cavitation1

Abstract

A novel technique for vibro-acoustical diagnostics of turbine cavitation is introduced and its use demonstrated on a Francis turbine. The technique enables identification of different cavitation mechanisms functioning in a turbine and delivers detailed turbine cavitation characteristics, for each of the mechanisms or for the total cavitation. The characteristics specify the contribution of every critical turbine part to the cavitation intensity. Typical diagnostic results: (1) enable optimization of turbine operation with respect to cavitation erosion; (2) show how a turbine’s cavitation behavior can be improved; and (3) form the basis for setting up a high-sensitivity, reliable cavitation monitoring system.