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Unsteady hydrodynamics and fluid-structure interactions

Unsteady hydrodynamics and fluid-structure interactions

Analysis of instabilities and critical phenomena
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Unsteady hydrodynamics and fluid-structure interactions

This area studies complex unsteady flows in hydraulic machines and their interactions with mechanical structures. It aims to understand the mechanisms behind instabilities, dynamic loads and critical phenomena such as cavitation or flow-induced vibrations.

Issues and objectives

Develop an in-depth understanding of unsteady phenomena in order to predict their impact on the performance and durability of hydroelectric components.
Controlling complex hydraulic instabilities Control of complex hydraulic instabilities (vortex rope, pulsations, cavitation).
Understanding fluid-structure coupling and induced dynamic loads. Understanding fluid-structure coupling and induced dynamic loads.
Reduced risk of fatigue and long-term failure. Reduced risk of fatigue and long-term failure.

Our scientific approach

We combine high-resolution unsteady numerical simulations and high-frequency experimental measurements to analyse vortex structures, pressure fluctuations and dynamic interactions between the flow and mechanical components. This multiphysics approach makes it possible to link fundamental phenomena and industrial constraints.
High-fidelity unsteady CFD simulations

We develop and use advanced numerical models to capture complex unsteady flows, vortex structures and cavitation phenomena under realistic conditions.

ReHydro_CFD
High-frequency instrumented experimental devices

Laboratory and on-site measurement campaigns, incorporating pressure and vibration sensors with high temporal resolution, enable the dynamic phenomena to be characterised in detail and the numerical models to be validated.

 

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Coupled fluid-structure multiphysics models

We use numerical and analytical approaches to represent the coupling between flow and structure, in order to assess the dynamic loads and fatigue risks of components.

FEM_DAniel_2

Meet the team

Our researchers and engineers are the driving force behind the excellence of the Hydro Alps Lab, combining scientific expertise with a passion for hydropower.