Investigating the potential for using a simple water reaction turbine for power production from low head hydro resources

摘要: Abstract In this analysis the simple reaction water turbine known as Barker’s Mill is revisited. The major geometrical and operational parameters have been identified and, using principles of conservation mass, momentum energy, governing equations developed for ideal case there being no frictional losses. solutions resulting are offered in a non-dimensional form. It shown that maximum torque produced by machine when stationary. At point net output power zero. As load decreased rotates produced. Furthermore, because centrifugal pumping effect, mass flow rate through increases during acceleration. Further decrease accompanied speed, power, efficiency. reduced towards half value at stationary condition, rate, rotational speed tend infinity. Under condition efficiency approaches unity. characteristics idealized used to investigate general explore its application production from reservoirs with low heads. Theoretical presented including consideration fluid losses practical situation. A will never run away infinite such depend on Here new factor defined, representing overall within turbine. Finally paper presents briefly experimental performance results two prototypes. prototypes under investigation rotor diameters O0.24 m O0.12 m respectively. models were tested supply heads ranging 1 m 4 m. can operate very hydro-static head high energy conversion This type exhibits prominent self-pumping ability speeds. achieve speeds diameter should be small limits volumetric capacity hence generation Consequently applications would limited micro-hydro generation. split pipe design easy manufacture it has approximately 50% even