Unleashing Sustainable Energy: Micro Hydro Francis Turbine

Unleashing Sustainable Energy: Micro Hydro Francis Turbine

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Site Overview
   1. Property Boundaries
   2. Watercourse Layout
3. Pen Stock
   1. Diameter and Length
   2. Burial with Electric Transmission Line
   3. Head Measurement and Flow Rate
4. Intake Area
   1. Diversion Wall Design
   2. Stream Flow and Colander Screen
   3. Installation of Diversion Wall
5. Stream Bed Preparation
   1. Compacting and Non-Permeable Membrane
   2. Positioning the Wall Sections
6. Diversion Pipe and Fill Material
   1. Revealing the Diversion Pipe
   2. Installing Heavy Fill Material
   3. Positioning Non-Permeable Membrane
7. Water Diversion and Channeling
   1. Installing Fittings and Butterfly Valve
   2. Filling Temporary Diversion of Water
   3. Flowing the Stream over Coanda Screen
8. Stabilizing the Diversion Wall
   1. Weighting the Wall with Mud and Rocks
   2. Transplanting Native Willows
   3. Establishing as a Permanent Fixture
9. Design for Potential Future Flood Stage
   1. Allowing Water to Flow Over the Wall
   2. Ensuring Stability with Heavy Rocks
10. PVC Pipe Installation
    1. Laying Out the Pipe
    2. Maintaining Proper Grade and Bedding
    3. Protecting the Pipe with Warning Tape
11. Francis Turbine Installation
    1. Positioning the Discharge Chamber
    2. Installing the Francis Turbine
    3. Importance of Z Pipe and Drain Valve
12. Burial of Pen Stock and Wiring
    1. Bedding the Penstock with Care
    2. Warning Tape and Electrical Conduit
13. Completion of Pen Stock
    1. Connecting Final Segments with a Repair Sleeve
    2. Burial and Installation of Electrical Equipment
14. Conclusion

Article: Micro Hydro System Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Micro hydro systems are a sustainable and efficient way to harness the power of flowing water to generate electricity. In this article, we will take a closer look at the installation process of a micro hydro system, step by step. From site overview and pen stock installation to the burial of the PVC pipe and the completion of the system, we will explore the intricacies of a successful micro hydro installation.

Introduction

Micro hydro systems utilize the natural flow of water to generate clean and renewable energy. By harnessing the power of a stream or river, these systems can supply electricity to off-grid locations or contribute to the overall energy grid. The installation process involves several crucial steps, ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of the system.

Site Overview

Before diving into the installation process, it is essential to conduct a thorough site overview. This involves understanding the property boundaries and the layout of the watercourse. By highlighting the green boundaries, we can identify the areas where the micro hydro system will be installed.

Pen Stock

The pen stock is a vital component of the micro hydro system, responsible for delivering the flowing water to the turbine. It is crucial to determine the pen stock's diameter and length, as well as bury it along with an electric transmission line for power delivery to the control room. The head measurement and flow rate are also significant factors to consider during the installation.

Intake Area

The intake area is where the water diversion process begins. A well-designed diversion wall is constructed to direct the stream flow through a colander screen and into the pen stock. The installation of the diversion wall requires the use of specialized equipment, such as a mini excavator, to position the wall sections accurately.

Stream Bed Preparation

To ensure the stability of the diversion wall, the stream bed is compacted and a non-permeable membrane is added. The excavator is then utilized to position the wall sections and create a secure foundation. This process involves careful alignment and positioning.

Diversion Pipe and Fill Material

As the diversion wall is completed, the diversion pipe is revealed under the water. Heavy fill material is placed on the downstream side, while a non-permeable membrane is positioned at the far end of the wall. This arrangement restricts the water outflow and channels the stream over the coanda screen.

Water Diversion and Channeling

The next step involves the installation of necessary fittings, such as a 12-inch wafer butterfly valve, to control the water diversion. The temporary diversion of water around the wall is achieved with the help of an excavator. This process restricts the water outflow, ensuring the stream flows fully over the coanda screen.

Stabilizing the Diversion Wall

To stabilize the diversion wall, heavy rocks are placed in the flood section. This prevents the rocks from washing downstream and maintains the wall's position within the water channel. Additionally, topsoil is brought in, and native willows are transplanted on both sides of the creek to enhance stability.

Design for Potential Future Flood Stage

The diversion wall's design takes into account the potential for future flood stages. In the case of a high flow rate, the water will flow over the remainder of the wall while still diverting through the coanda screen. Heavy rocks are strategically placed to ensure they won't be washed downstream during floods.

PVC Pipe Installation

The placement and burial of the PVC pipe is a time-consuming task. The pipe, laid out before trench digging, is carefully bedded to protect it from rock damage. A transit and measuring rod are used to maintain the proper downslope grade of the pen stock. Warning tape is added above the pipe to prevent future damage.

Francis Turbine Installation

Once the pen stock is properly laid and buried, the installation of the Francis turbine can take place. A pre-fabricated metal discharge chamber is positioned to discharge the water back to the stream bed. The turbine, along with the extended draft tube, is installed and bolted securely into the chamber.

Burial of Pen Stock and Wiring

The burial process involves bedding the pen stock carefully to ensure its protection. Fine sand and clay particles are used below and above the pipe to provide adequate support. Warning tape is buried above the pipe to indicate its presence. Additionally, the electrical conduit is buried with warning tape to indicate its location.

Completion of Pen Stock

As the final segments of the pen stock are connected, a repair sleeve is used to ensure a secure and seamless joint. With the repair sleeve in place, the pen stock is fully buried, and wire pulling and installation of electrical equipment can take place in the control room. The careful placement of the pen stock is vital to prevent any future repairs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the installation of a micro hydro system requires meticulous planning and execution. From the site overview to the completion of the pen stock, each step plays a crucial role in the effective functioning and longevity of the system. With proper design and installation, a micro hydro system can provide clean and renewable energy for years to come.

Highlights:

1. Micro hydro systems harness the power of flowing water for renewable energy generation.
2. The installation process involves site overview, pen stock installation, and burial of the PVC pipe.
3. Diversion walls, coanda screens, and indigenous plantings ensure stable water diversion.
4. The design accounts for potential future flood stages and adapts to high flow rates.
5. Bedding and burial of the pen stock and proper wiring installation are essential.
6. The Francis turbine and control room equipment complete the micro hydro system.
7. Careful planning and execution ensure long-term functionality and sustainability.
8. Micro hydro systems contribute to clean and renewable energy production.

FAQ:

Q: How does a micro hydro system generate electricity? A: A micro hydro system uses the flow of water to turn a turbine, which, in turn, generates electricity through a connected generator.

Q: What is the lifespan of a micro hydro system? A: With proper maintenance, a well-designed micro hydro system can last for several decades, providing reliable electricity throughout its lifespan.

Q: Can a micro hydro system be used for off-grid locations? A: Yes, micro hydro systems are an excellent choice for off-grid locations as they rely on the constant flow of water to generate electricity, even in remote areas.