Abstract:
The method relates to the fabrication of a Francis-type runner for a hydraulic machine. The Francis-type runner includes: a runner band including at least two elements partially defining the runner band, a runner crown including at least two elements partly defining the runner crown, and a plurality of blades extending between the runner crown and the runner band. The blades are each fitted in between two elements of the runner band and between two elements of the runner crown. The method includes fabricating separately the blades, the elements of the runner band and the elements of the runner crown. All the elements of the runner band are then welded to the blades using an electron beam welding method. All the elements of the runner crown are then welded to the blades using an electron beam welding method.