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State Universities and Colleges
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COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
Buenavista, Guimaras
Design of Mini Hydro Electric Power Plant System
ME Project Study 1
ME 18
BSME 4A
A RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Presented to the Faculty of Engineering
Guimaras State University
Mclain, Buenavista, Guimaras
In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for Project Proposal of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical
Engineering
By:
Arnel N. Galanza
Lynie V. Galvez
Jayson R. Hiponia
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I. Overview
The Project title conceptualization is the process of designing a project that leads
to a project concept document. The project concept is the basis on which the
interest of potential donors is secured.
Learning Objectives
At the end of the worksheet/ module, the students must be able to;
1. Discuss the introduction and the review of the related literature(RRL)
2. Present Propose Title with comprehensive RRL and objectives
3. Submit Proposed Title with comprehensive RRL and objectives
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ABSTRACT
Mini hydro-electric power plant is both an efficient and reliable form of clean
source of renewable energy. It can be an excellent method of harnessing
renewable energy from limited source of water. This project study is to design
and build a mini hydroelectric system that generates electricity using a 20-liter
source of water. The system will use a dynamo motor and inverter to convert the
kinetic energy of the water into electricity, which will be used to power a pump
and external outputs such as LED bulbs. The system will operate in a closed
loop, with the pump returning the water from the outlet of the system back to the
source. Mini hydroelectric systems have been shown to be a reliable and efficient
source of electricity for small-scale applications. These systems can be easily
installed and maintained, and have low environmental impact compared to
traditional energy sources.
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Hydroelectric energy is a renewable and sustainable source of electricity that
harnesses the power of moving water to generate electricity. It is considered one
of the most efficient and cost-effective forms of renewable energy, and has been
used for centuries to provide electricity to homes, businesses, and industries.
The basic principle behind hydroelectric energy is simple: when water flows
through a turbine, it rotates the blades of the turbine, which in turn drives a
generator to produce electricity. This process is known as hydroelectric
generation, and it can be harnessed on a small scale using mini hydroelectric
systems.
A mini Hydro Electric power plant is a small-scale hydroelectric power generation
system that produces electricity by harnessing the energy of falling water. These
plants are typically installed in areas with a small to medium water flow, such as
rivers, streams, and canals, and are capable of generating anywhere from a few
kilowatts to several megawatts of power. Mini hydro plants offer a number of
advantages over traditional large-scale hydroelectric power plants. For one, they
are more cost-effective and easier to install, as they do not require the
construction of large dams or reservoirs. Additionally, mini hydro plants can be
installed in remote areas that lack access to traditional power grids, making them
ideal for communities in developing countries. The basic components of a mini
hydro power plant include a water intake, a turbine, a generator, and a control
system. The water intake captures the flow of water and channels it into the
turbine, which converts the kinetic energy of the water into mechanical energy.
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The mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy by the generator,
which is then regulated and controlled by the control system. There are several
different types of turbines that can be used in mini hydro power plants, including
Pelton, Crossflow, and Francis turbines. The choice of turbine will depend on the
specific site conditions, such as the water flow rate and head, as well as the
desired output capacity of the plant. In addition to the turbine and generator, the
control system is a crucial component of a mini hydro power plant. This system
regulates the flow of water into the turbine, as well as the output of the generator,
ensuring that the plant operates efficiently and safely. One of the main benefits of
mini hydro power plants is their relatively low environmental impact compared to
traditional power generation methods. Unlike fossil fuel-based power plants, mini
hydro plants do not produce greenhouse gas emissions, making them a more
sustainable and environmentally friendly option. However, there are some
potential downsides to mini hydro power plants as well. For example, they can be
vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods or droughts, which can disrupt the
water flow and affect the operation of the plant. Additionally, the installation of
mini hydro plants can have an impact on the local ecosystem, including changes
to water flow patterns and the potential harm to local wildlife. Despite these
potential challenges, mini hydro power plants are becoming increasingly popular
as a source of renewable energy. With advances in technology and increasing
demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly power generation methods,
the mini hydro power sector is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
In conclusion, mini Hydro Electric power plants offer a cost-effective and
environmentally friendly alternative to traditional power generation methods. With
the right planning and design, these systems can provide reliable and
sustainable electricity for communities in remote and developing areas, helping
to bridge the energy gap and improve quality of life for people around the world.
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Mini Hydro Electric power plants is rooted in the growing demand for clean and
renewable energy sources. The increasing awareness of the environmental
impact of traditional power generation methods, such as fossil fuels, has led to a
shift towards alternative energy sources that are more sustainable and
environmentally friendly. Hydroelectric power, in general, has been used for over
a century to generate electricity, but with advances in technology, the mini hydro
power sector has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional large-scale
hydroelectric power plants. Mini hydro plants offer a number of advantages, such
as lower costs and the ability to be installed in remote areas without access to
traditional power grids. Despite the benefits, there are still many challenges to be
addressed in the development and implementation of mini hydro power plants.
For example, the impact of these systems on the local ecosystem, including
water flow patterns and wildlife, must be carefully considered and addressed.
Additionally, mini hydro plants are vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods
or droughts, which can disrupt the operation of the plant. As a result, there is a
growing need for research and development in the mini hydro power sector,
aimed at improving the design, performance, and sustainability of these systems.
The background of the study of mini Hydro Electric power plants therefore
focuses on the need for clean and renewable energy sources, the advantages
and challenges of mini hydro power, and the importance of continued research
and development in this field.
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The purpose of this study is to design and build a mini Hydro Electric Power
Plant system using a 20-liter source of water as a source of energy. This system
will use a dynamo motor to convert the kinetic energy of the water into electricity,
which will be inverted and used to power a pump and external outputs such as
LED bulbs. The potential benefits of such a system include a reliable and
renewable source of electricity, as well as a low environmental impact compared
to traditional energy sources.
However, there are also challenges to consider when using mini hydroelectric
systems, such as the availability of water and the need for specialized
equipment. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into the
designing and building of mini hydroelectric power plant systems for small-scale
energy generation, and will contribute to the development of sustainable energy
solutions.
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OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
General objectives:
This study aims to Design a mini Hydro Electric Power Plant System
Specific objectives:
To generate a specified amount of renewable energy (for example, 50 W)
using only 20 liters of water per minute.
To describe the function and working of the hydro turbine.
To minimize the environmental impact of the power plant, for example, by
reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing the impact on local flora
and fauna, and minimizing water usage.
To demonstrate the feasibility and viability of small-scale hydroelectric
power generation using limited water resources, and to encourage the
replication of similar projects in other locations.
To educate the public about the benefits of hydroelectric power and raise
awareness of the importance of renewable energy.
To optimize the use of local resources, such as water, by efficiently
harnessing their energy potential while minimizing water waste.
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SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This study will be beneficial to the following persons, organizations, and agencies
both public and private who may use the results of this study.
Students – the study can provide hands on learning opportunities for students in
university, allowing them to gain practical experience in the field of renewable
energy. The methods and results of the study could serve as a reference to
engineering students who is planning to study or conduct a study pertaining to
the design of mini hydro electrical power plant.
Future researcher- the study can provide hands on learning opportunities for
university students, allowing them to gain practical experience in the field of
renewable energy. this study will surely contribute to a mechanical engineering
student of literature and body of knowledge and those who will conduct the study
on the same concept will gain insight from the substance of this investigation.
Community- the study can raise awareness about the importance of renewable
energy and hydroelectric power, promoting community engagement and
encouraging the adoption of sustainable energy practices.
Advancement of knowledge- the study can contribute to the existing body of
knowledge in the field of renewable energy and hydroelectric power, particularly
in the area of small-scale power generation.
Development of new technologies – the study can lead to the development of
new technologies and techniques for mini hydroelectric power generation,
making it more efficient and cost effective.
Improved energy access- the study can lead to the implementation of mini
hydroelectric power plants in remote areas, improving access to electricity and
reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.
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Environmental benefits- the study can promote the use of renewable energy
sources and reduce the environmental impact of energy production, including
greenhouse gas emissions.
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SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
The study will focus on the technical aspects of mini hydroelectric power plant
system using 20 liters of water per minute, including the design and construction
of the power plant, the efficiency of energy conversion, and the optimal utilization
of water resources.
Feasibility Analysis: The study will conduct a feasibility analysis to determine the
viability of mini hydroelectric power generation using 20 liters of water per
minute, considering factors such as the cost of construction, the limited water
resources, and the potential for energy generation.
Environmental Impact: The study will assess the environmental impact of mini
hydroelectric power generation, including the impact on local flora and fauna, the
water usage, and the potential for greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy Access: The study will evaluate the potential of mini hydroelectric power
plant system to improve energy access, particularly in rural areas where access
to electricity is limited.
Economic Analysis: The study will conduct an economic analysis to determine
the cost-effectiveness of mini hydroelectric power generation, considering the
cost of construction, the cost of electricity generation, and the potential for cost
savings over time.
Limitations: Geographical Constraints: The study may be limited by the
availability of water resources which is 20 litter.
Technical Challenges: The study may face technical challenges in the design
and construction of the power plant, particularly in terms of optimizing the flow
rate and pressure of the water to generate the most power possible.
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Cost: The study may be limited by the cost of construction and the availability of
funding, which may impact the feasibility of the project.
Environmental Regulations: The study may be limited by local and national
environmental regulations, which may restrict the use of water resources for
power generation or impose strict requirements on the environmental impact of
the power plant.
Lack of Data: The study may be limited by the availability of data, particularly in
terms of the environmental impact of mini hydroelectric power generation and the
potential for energy generation using 20 liters of water per minute.
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DEFINITION OF TERMS
Hydroelectric Power: is a form of energy that harnesses the power of water in
motion such as water flowing over a waterfall to generate electricity.
(https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/hydroelectric-energy )
Mini Hydroelectric Power Plant: A mini hydroelectric power plant is a small-
scale hydroelectric power facility that generates electricity using a small volume
of water. (https://solar-energy.technology/renewable-energy/hydropower/central-
minihydraulics)
Generator: A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into
electrical energy. Generators do not produce electricity on their own, they must
first collect mechanical energy from an outside source.
(https://www.turbinegenerator.org/generator-works/)
Water Flow Rate: The water flow rate refers to the volume of water that flows
through the power plant per unit of time, usually measured in liters per minute or
cubic meters per second. (https://balkanplumbing.com/flow-rate-of-water-
pressure-gpm/)
Turbine: A turbine is a mechanical device that converts the kinetic energy of
flowing water into rotational energy, which can then be used to generate
electricity. (https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Turbine)
Power Output: The power output refers to the amount of electricity that is
generated by the power plant, usually measured in kilowatts (kW) or megawatts
(MW).
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Efficiency: Efficiency refers to the ratio of energy output to energy input,
expressed as a percentage. The efficiency of a mini hydroelectric power plant
depends on factors such as the design of the turbine, the flow rate of the water,
and the head.
Renewable Energy: Renewable energy is energy that is generated from natural
resources that are replenished over time, including hydro, wind, solar, and
geothermal energy.
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CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
This chapter present the review of related literature and studies which will look
into existing studies that can compare with propose project study. It will entail
several important features that help characterize the desired hardware and
software design of mini hydro-electric power plant system.
Hydro-electric power plant is a very clean source of energy, which does not
consume but only used the water and again make it available for other uses. It
involves the conversion of the potential energy of water into mechanical energy,
which is a technology with higher efficiency, in most cases double that of other
conventional electric power plants (Energy Saving Trust, 2003).
Hydro-electric power plants already supply over 6% of the world energy needs
and over the next decades much of the growth in renewable energy source will
result from large scale hydroelectric power project particularly in the developing
world. The basic principle of hydropower follows that; if water can be piped from
a certain level to a lower level, then the resulting water pressure can be used to
do work. This means that hydropower involves the use of potential energy
released by the weight of the falling water through a vertical distance to generate
energy. If the water pressure is allowed to move a mechanical energy which can
be used to drive an electric generator, grinding or some other useful devices
(Tout Unlimited, 2003).
Hydro-electric power depends on the dynamic head, the amount of water flow
and the efficiency of the generator /turbine. To know the power potential of a
river, it is necessary to know the flow in the river and the available head. The flow
Q of the river is the amount of time (in m3 or liters) that passes in a certain
amount of time across a section of the river. Flows are normally given in cubic
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meters/seconds. The head H is the vertical difference in level (in meters) through
which water falls down. The theoretical power P available from a giving head of
the water is exactly equal to the head H and flow Q (US Department of Energy,
2004).
In the hydropower generator, water pressure from falling water pushes the
turbine blades which are connected to a generator shaft and therefore causing
the armature to spin in the magnetic field and by this electricity is generated
(Encarta Concise Encyclopedia,2005).
Hydropower is considered one of the most ancient types of sustainable, cheap,
feasible and clean source of energy. It provides many benefits for local citizens,
as reducing water and air pollution and enhancing local resources (Kamran
etal.,2019). It covered an important role in the economic and industrial
development in nineteenth century and nowadays it still represents an important
factor in the development of low-carbon systems Harlan,2018). Hydroelectric
power includes both large scale hydro-electric dams and small run of the river
technology. The construction of hydroelectric power stations depends on the
topography and geography of the territory. On the other hands, the construction
of hydroelectric facilities, especially large-scale infrastructures, might impact the
environment and aquatic wildlife’s ecosystems. In some cases, in large artificial
lakes with dams the concentration of nutrients and sediments might increase,
changing habitats and conditions for animal and plant life and increasing
greenhouse gasses emissions (Abbasi and Abbasi, 2011; Wagner et al., 2019).
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MATERIALS
Dynamo Motor
Inverter
Pump
Cement
Wiring
Pipe
Plywood
These components will be selected based on their suitability for the intended
application and their availability. The dynamo motor will be a permanent magnet
brushless DC motor with a power output of at least 500 watts and an efficiency of
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at least 90%. The inverter will be a modified sine wave inverter with a power
output of at least 500 watts and an input voltage range of 12-24 volts. The pump
will be a submersible pump with a flow rate of at least 20 liters per minute and a
head of at least 1 meter. The wiring will be UL listed stranded copper wire with a
gauge appropriate for the expected current draw of the system.
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
The goal of this research project is to design and build a mini hydroelectric
system that generates electricity using a 20-liter source of water. The system will
use a dynamo motor and inverter to convert the kinetic energy of the water into
electricity, which will be used to power a pump and external outputs such as LED
bulbs. The system will operate in a closed loop, with the pump returning the
water from the outlet of the system back to the source.
To achieve this goal, the following steps will be taken:
1.Determine the water flow rate and head of the system: The water flow rate will
be measured using a flow meter, and the head will be measured using a ruler or
tape measure. These values will be used to calculate the expected power output
of the system using the interpolation equation provided in the literature review.
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2.Select and size the dynamo motor and inverter: Based on the expected power
output of the system and the required voltage and frequency of the output
electricity, the appropriate size and type of dynamo motor and inverter will be
selected. The efficiency of these components will also be considered.
3.Select and size the pump: Based on the flow rate and head of the system, the
appropriate size and type of pump will be selected. The pump will be sized to
return the water from the outlet of the system back to the source with a flow rate
of at least 20 liters per minute and a head of at least 1 meter.
4.Assemble the system: The dynamo motor, inverter, pump, and necessary
wiring will be assembled according to the manufacturer's instructions and any
additional design considerations.
5.Test the system: The system will be tested to ensure that it is functioning
properly and producing the expected amount of electricity. Any necessary
adjustments or modifications will be made as needed.
6.Monitor the system: The system will be monitored over time to track its
performance and identify any potential issues or maintenance needs.
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Working Principle of Mini Hydro Electric Power Plant
In mini hydro-electric power plants the potential energy of water due to its high
location is converted into electrical energy. The total power generation
capacity of the mini hydro-electric power plant depends on the head of water
and volume of water flowing towards the water turbine.
The water flowing in the river possesses two type of energy:
The kinetic energy due to flow of water and Potential energy due to the height
of water. In mini hydro-electric power plant and potential energy of water is
utilized to generate electricity.
The formula for total power that can be generated from water in mini hydro-
electric power plant due to its height is given
P= q*h*g
Where:
“p” = is the power produced in “watt”
“Q” = the rate of flow of water which in cubic meter/second
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“h” = height of water which is measured in “meter” It’s also head of water.
The difference between source of water (from where water is taken) and the
water’s outflow (where the water is used to generate electricity, it is the place
near the turbines).
“g” = the gravity constant 9.81 m/second square
The formula clearly shows that the total power that can be generated from the
hydroelectric power plants depends on two major factors
a. The flow rate of water or volume of flow of water and
b. Height or head of water
c. More the volume of water and
d. More the head of water more is the power produced in the hydroelectric power
plant.
To obtain the high head of water the reservoir of water should as high as
possible and power generation unit should be as low as possible. The maximum
height of reservoir of water is fixed by natural factors like the height of river bed,
the amount of water and other environmental factors. The location of the power
generation unit can be adjusted as per the total amount of power that is to be
generated. Usually the power generation unit is constructed at levels lower than
ground level so as to get the maximum head of water. The total flow rate of water
can be adjusted through the pen stock as per the requirements. If more power is
to be generated more water can be allowed to flow through it.
INTERPOLATION:
In this study, interpolation methods will be used to estimate the power output of
the mini hydroelectric system based on known water flow rates. The power
output of the system will be calculated using the following equation:
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Power Output (W) = Water Flow Rate (L/s) * Water Density (kg/L) * Gravity
(m/s^2) * Head (m) * Efficiency
where the water flow rate is the volume of water flowing through the system per
second, the water density is the mass of the water per unit volume, the gravity is
the acceleration due to gravity, the head is the height difference between the inlet
and outlet of the system, and the efficiency is the fraction of the potential energy
of the water that is converted into electrical energy by the system.
CALCULATION:
In this section, we will outline the calculation methods that we will use to
determine the energy production potential of our mini hydroelectric project. To
begin, we will assess the available water resource by measuring the flow rate
and head of the stream that will be used to power the project. Based on these
measurements, we can calculate the theoretical power potential of the water
resource using the following formula:
Power (kW) = Flow Rate (m3/s) x Head (m) x Gravity (9.81 m/s2) / Efficiency
For example, if the flow rate of our stream is 0.5 m3/s and the head is 10 m, the
theoretical power potential of the stream would be approximately 2.5 kW.
Next, we will select appropriate turbine and generator equipment based on the
power potential of the water resource and the energy production goals of the
project. For our project, we have chosen to use a pelton wheel turbine and a
synchronous generator, which are well-suited to our site conditions and have an
expected efficiency of 85%.
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Using these numbers, we can estimate the daily energy production of our mini
hydroelectric project as follows:
Daily Energy Production (kWh) = Power (kW) x Hours of Operation (h/day) x
Efficiency
For example, if we operate our project for 8 hours per day, the daily energy
production would be approximately 16 kWh. This is equivalent to the energy
consumption of a small household for one day.
It is important to note that the actual energy production of our project may vary
due to factors such as seasonal changes in water flow and changes in electricity
demand. We will continuously monitor the performance of our project and make
any necessary adjustments to optimize energy production.
Daily Energy Production:
Based on the volume of water available (20 liters) and the expected efficiency of
the system (90%), we estimate that the system will be able to produce
approximately 180 watts of electricity per day. This will be sufficient to power the
pump that returns the water to the source, as well as provide electricity for
external outputs such as LED bulbs.
Daily Energy Production: Based on the volume of water available (20 liters) and
the expected efficiency of the system (90%), we estimate that the system will be
able to produce approximately 180 watts of electricity per day. This will be
sufficient to power the pump that returns the water to the source, as well as
provide electricity for external outputs such as LED bulbs.
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Some Components of the Hydroelectric Power Plants and Their Functions
Are Given Below:
WATER RESERVOIR
The function or purpose of reservoir is to store the water during rainy season and
supply the same during dry season. This is in simple, water storage area. The
water reservoir is the place behind the dam where water is stored. The water in
the reservoir is located higher than the rest of the dam structure. The height of
water in the reservoir decides how much potential energy the water possesses.
The higher the height of water, the more its potential energy. The high position of
water in the reservoir also enables it to move downwards effortlessly. The height
of water in the reservoir is higher than the natural height of water flowing in the
river, so it is considered to have an altered equilibrium. This also helps to
increase the overall potential energy of water, which helps ultimately produce
more electricity in the power generation unit.
DAM
The function of dam is to increase the height of the water level (increase in the
potential energy) behind it which ultimately increases the reservoir capacity. The
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dam also helps in increasing the working head of the power plant. Dams are
generally built to provide necessary head to the power plant.
TRASH RACK
The water intake from the dam or from the fore bay is provided with trash rack.
The main function of trash rack is to prevent the entry of any debris which may
damage the wicket gates and turbine runners or choke-up the nozzles of impulse
turbine. During winter season when water forms ice, to prevent the ice from
clinging to the trash racks, they are often heated electrically. Sometimes air
bubbling system is provided in the vicinity of the trash racks which bring warmer
water to the surface of the trash racks.
FOREBAY
The function of fore bay is to act as regulating reservoir temporarily storing water
when the load on the plant is reduced and to provide water for initial increment of
an increasing load while water in the canal is being accelerated. In many cases,
the canal itself is large enough to absorb the flow variations. In short, fore bay is
naturally provided for storage of water to absorb any flow variations if exist. This
can be considered as naturally provided surge tank as it does the function of the
surge tank. The fore bay is always provided with some type of outlet structure to
direct water to penstock depending upon the local conditions.
SURGE TANK
The main function of surge tank is to reduce the water hammering effect. When
there is a sudden increase of pressure in the penstock which can be due sudden
decrease in the load demand on the generator. When there is sudden decrease
in the load, the turbine gates admitting water to the turbine closes suddenly
owing to the action of the governor. This sudden rise in the pressure in the
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penstock will cause the positive water hammering effect. This may lead to burst
of the penstock because of high pressures. When there is sudden increase in the
load, governor valves open and accepts more water to the turbine. This results in
creation of vacuum in the penstock resulting into the negative water hammering
effect. Therefore, the penstock should have to withstand both positive water
hammering effect created due to close of governor valve and negative water
hammering effect due to opening of governor valve. In order to protect the
penstock from these water hammering effects, surge tank is used in hydroelectric
power station.
A surge tank is introduced in the system between dam and the power house
nearest. Surge tank is a tank provided to absorb any water surges caused in
the penstock due to sudden loading and unloading of the generator. When the
velocity of the water in the penstock decreases due to closing of turbine
valves, the water level in the surge tank increases and fluctuating up and down
till its motion is damped out by the friction. Similarly, when the water
accelerates in the penstock, water is provided by the surge tank for
acceleration. Surge tank water level falls down and fluctuates up and down
absorbing the surges.
INTAKE OR CONTROL GATES
These are the gates built on the inside of the dam. The water from reservoir is
released and controlled through these gates. These are called inlet gates
because water enters the power generation unit through these gates. When
the control gates are opened the water flows due to gravity through the
penstock and towards the turbines. The water flowing through the gates
possesses potential as well as kinetic energy.
THE PENSTOCK
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The penstock is the long pipe or the shaft that carries the water flowing from
the reservoir towards the power generation unit, comprised of the turbines
and generator. The water in the penstock possesses kinetic energy due to
its motion and potential energy due to its height. The total amount of power
generated in the hydroelectric power plant depends on the height of the water
reservoir and the amount of water flowing through the penstock. The amount
of water flowing through the penstock is controlled by the control gates.
SPILLWAY
The function of spillway is to provide safety of the dam. Spillway should have
the capacity to discharge major floods without damage to the dam and at the
same time keeps the reservoir levels below some predetermined maximum level.
POWER HOUSE
A power house consists of two main parts, a sub-structure to support the
hydraulic and electrical equipment and a superstructure to house and protect
this equipment. The superstructure of most power plants is the buildings
that house all the operating equipment. The generating unit and the exciter is
located in the ground floor. The turbines which rotate on vertical axis are placed
below the floor level while those rotating on a horizontal axis are placed on the
ground floor alongside of the generator.
WATER TURBINES
Water flowing from the penstock is allowed to enter the power generation unit,
which houses the turbine and the generator. When water falls on the blades of
the turbine the kinetic and potential energy of water is converted into the
rotational motion of the blades of the turbine. The rotating blades cause the
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shaft of the turbine to also rotate. The turbine shaft is enclosed inside the
generator. In most hydroelectric power plants there is more than one power
generation unit. There is large difference in height between the level of turbine
and level of water in the reservoir. This difference in height, also known as the head
of water, decides the total amount of power that can be generated in the
hydroelectric power plant. There are various types of water turbines such as
Kaplan turbine, Francis turbine, Pelton wheels etc. The type of turbine used in
the hydroelectric power plant depends on the height of the reservoir, quantity
of water and the total power generation capacity.
GENERATORS
It is in the generator where the electricity is produced. The shaft of the water
turbine rotates in the generator, which produces alternating current in the coils
of the generator. It is the rotation of the shaft inside the generator that produces
magnetic field which is converted into electricity by electromagnetic
field induction. Hence the rotation of the shaft of the turbine is crucial for the
production of electricity and this is achieved by the kinetic and potential energy
of water. Thus in hydroelectricity power plants potential energy of water is
converted into electricity.
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BLOCK DIAGRAM
WATER SUPPLY
(DAM)
TURBINE
DC MOTOR
INVERTER OUTPUT
BULB PUMP
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DESIGN
30
