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Design and performance evaluation of a pump-as-turbine micro-hydro test facility with incorporated inlet flow control
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 06:47 authored by Dean GiosioDean Giosio, Alan HendersonAlan Henderson, Walker, JM, Paul BrandnerPaul Brandner, Sargison, JE, Gautam, PIn the context of micro-hydro power schemes the initial cost of conventional Francis turbine units is often prohibitive. As such there is growing interest in pump-as-turbine (PAT) technology offering a more cost effective, yet still highly efficient, power generating alternative, finding uses in remote area power supply and energy recovery systems. However, the implementation of a PAT is highly problematic in terms of predicting the installed best operating point coupled with poor off-design performance due to the fixed geometry and absence of inlet flow control. In the current work a micro-hydro test facility and turbine unit is developed utilising a commercially available pump impeller together with a customised housing for incorporation of inlet flow control. Working initially from established PAT theory, this paper presents the design and performance testing of a hydraulic turbine unit suitable for use in rural micro-hydro, and energy recovery installations. Maximum efficiency of the unit was found to be 79%, marginally higher than that of the parent pump, while the off-design efficiency offered considerable improvement over previously published data of traditional PAT systems. The design provides a cost effective power generator in comparison to small scale Francis turbines, while providing a greater operational range than traditional PAT units.
Funding
Australian Research Council
Hydro Tasmania
History
Publication title
Renewable EnergyVolume
78Pagination
1-6ISSN
0960-1481Department/School
School of EngineeringPublisher
Pergamon-Elsevier Science LtdPlace of publication
The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England, Ox5 1GbRights statement
Copyright 2015 ElsevierRepository Status
- Restricted