Abstract
The aim of this investigation is to develop an environmentally friendly nano-hydraulic turbine. Three type models of Savonius rotor are constructed and tested in a water tunnel to improve and clarify the power performance. Flow field around the rotor is examined visually to reveal the enhancement mechanisms of power coefficient using the double-step rotor. Flow visualization showed the difference of flow patterns at the central section between the standard (single-step) rotor and the double-step one. A meandering flow in the axial direction of the rotor was observed only for the double-step rotor. This flow had the pressure restoration effect at the returning blade's concave side and the torque strengthened effect at the advancing blade's convex side. As a consequence, the power coefficient was 10% improved.
