Comments on: A Reader Asks: Isn’t there a Hydro Turbine with Variable Speed?

By: B.S.Vidyaranya

B.S.Vidyaranya — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 18:59:23 +0000

Hello Sir, I am building a water turbine for micro hydel! It’s actually unique in idea & (sort of crazy), thought of 35 years ago! I am now 60 & all of a sudden my passion has come back to try it out with a working model which has just been fabricated, rather crudely! If u promise me that u won’t laugh, I can share it with u for further guidance.

Pl wish me luck!.

Yours,
B.S.Vidyaranya
(Chartered Engineer & Consultant)

By: Shane

Shane — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:25:16 +0000

Hi!

I have some questions also regarding hydro turbines..

Are there any hydro turbines available at the market which is suitable for the following specs:
Head: 3m-6m
Diameter: 12″ / 250mm-300mm
Power: 30 kW
Variable water flow

Thanks:)

By: Jess

Jess — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:30:40 +0000

Kolyan,

Pelton bearings can last a long time if they are maintained regularly. They are not exposed to water under pressure the way other designs are. If properly cooles and sheltered from overspray all that is required is regular lubrication.

More important will be gear case and or belt wear for any speed matching. The speed match requirement is needed to maintain a specific wheel within its most efficient design. Any speed ratio change will generate both heat and wear. So this is one of the places where the most effort in longevity design should be spent. Proper cooling, right selection of specific speed for dynamic head flow conditions…