- A vortex turbine, also known as a turbulent hydro turbine or whirlpool turbine, is a specific type of hydro turbine designed for low head and low flow conditions.
- Vortex turbines are characterized by a central hub with curved blades that create a swirling vortex in the flowing water. They capture the kinetic energy of the swirling water, converting it into mechanical energy to generate electricity.
- These turbines are particularly suitable for harnessing ( The term “harnessing” in the context of energy and power generation refers to the process of capturing, utilizing, and controlling a source of energy, Hydropower plants harness the potential energy of falling or flowing water to generate electricity. ) the energy of slow-moving or turbulent water, such as in small rivers or canals.
- vortex turbines are specialized for low head and low flow conditions where traditional turbines may not be as efficient.
Turbulent Energy
- A very small 1-meter drop or progressive height difference is enough for the smallest turbine.
- For larger height differences and flow, more powerful turbines.
- When water passes through the turbine rotates slowly it creates low pressure in the vortex.
- For the flow regulation, a sluice gate will be there.
- Can include a Trash rack to protect the turbine from larger debris.
Some Measurements related to this
P=g*Q*H
P=available power
H=height
Q=flow(m^3/s)
g=gravitational constant (9.81)
eg: 10KW=9.81*.05*20 ( here height is high )
10KW=9.81*.68*1.5 (here the amount of water flowing through the turbine is more )
So height and flow depend on the amount of energy production
How we can calculate the flow or velocity of the water
Velocity=distance/time
can use an electromagnetic velocity meter
Flow( Q )= velocity * cross-sectional area
If we have a height difference of 1 or 1.5 meters possible to get 30KW
The only required height difference is 1.5m