Introduction
In our previous blog, we discussed components of hydroelectric power plants. Today’s blog will discuss the detailed construction of the Turbine used to convert kinetic energy into mechanical energy. however, we also discuss the Classification of Turbine, According to the name of the originator it is classified as Pelton wheel Turbine, Francis Turbine, Kaplan Turbine
The turbine is used to convert the kinetic energy into mechanical energy so that generator can convert this mechanical energy into electrical energy and achieve the ultimate goal of the power plant.
Classification of Turbine
The turbines can be classified in four ways According to,
- The direction of water flow
- The action of water on moving blades
- Head and quantity of water available.
- Name of originator
1. Classification of Turbine According The direction of water flow
Water can flow in many directions. henceTurbines are classified according to the direction at which waterfalls on the turbine, on type of water flow.
Axial flow Turbine
Clearly mentioned in the name, the water flows along the shaft axis. however, this means the water stream coming from penstock is parallel to the axis of rotation of the turbine.
Inward radial flow Turbine
The flow of water is inward that is going towards the turbine along the radius. therefore In this type, the water flows in a circular manner inwards turbine.
Tangential/ peripheral Turbine
The flow of water is perpendicular to the shaft called tangential flow. hence According to this flow, tangential or peripheral turbines are used.
Mixed flow Turbine
When the flow of water is perpendicular to the shaft and parallel, however, this means water flow is axial and tangential. In this case, mixed-flow turbines are used.
2. Classification of Turbine According to the action of water on moving blades
According to the action of water that falls on moving blades is impulse turbine and reaction turbine
Impulse Turbine
Impulse is a pattern in which water flows. hence water pressure is converted into kinetic energy, and a jet is formed, which drives the wheel. In short, impulse flow only has kinetic energy. For this kind of flow, Impulse turbines are used.
Reaction Turbine
The water pressure combined with the velocity means this flow has kinetic energy as well as pressure. For such a type of water reaction, turbines are used.
3. According to head and quantity of water available.
The head of water turbines is divided into three types: high, medium, and low head turbines.
Don’t look above your eyebrows; Head is the height of standing water
There is no ruling, but below 30 meters, water flow is considered as low head flow.
The medium head is considered when the height of standing water is between 30 meters and 300 meters.
The high head is considered when the height of standing water is above 300 meters
4. According to the name of the originator
Turbines are originated from three inventors Kaplan, fancies, and Pelton wheel. however, According to their names, turbines are classified into three types again.
Pelton wheel Turbine
This turbine is used for high head, low and impulse type of flow of water.
Francis Turbine
Francis turbine is a reaction turbine used mainly for medium head and medium flow water.
Kaplan Turbine
Kaplan turbine is a propeller turbine having adjustable blades assembly generally used for low head and high flow plants.
In our next blog, we will discuss the Pelton wheel turbine in detail.
