Engineering project: Harvesting energy from natural water fall

In summary, the conversation discusses the design of a micro-turbine for use in a system involving a battery for storing power. The plan is to test different scenarios of waterfalls in a lab using a daily water usage calculation. However, the main challenge is the small height differential and potential obstruction of flow in drain pipe systems. The use of a mini turbine in a downspout is suggested, but the effectiveness may be limited in areas with frequent rainstorms.
  • #1
terry1993
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Homework Statement
the design of a micro turbine hat can use rainfall/ greywater in standard household or building to convert the fall of water into electrical energy that can be stored to be used when required.
Relevant Equations
im not sure what equations would be needed
- design of a micro-turbine based on different scenarios of waterfalls
- build a system that involves a battery for storing power
- test in the lab
I have attached a image. I know the image is not very detailed but wanting some advice on this situation. I have done some water calculations on how much water I believe will be used on a daily basis and was planning on testing this theory in the scenario shown below. can someone give me some advice on this please?

also part of this is to design a micro turbine but not really sure how to go about that
Screenshot 2022-06-24 at 13.11.04.png
 
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  • #2
The main problem with drain pipe systems is that the flow relies on gravity and pipes slope, as small as 1/8 of an inch for each foot of length.
Therefore, the height differential is very small for any turbine to work properly, which also causes a significant obstruction to the flow in such systems.
 
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  • #3
Put it in a downspout. If you get rainstorms like we do in Colorado, you’ll need more than a mini turbine.
 
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Likes russ_watters
  • #4
is there any sort of turbine you would recommend for this type of testing
 

1. How does harvesting energy from natural water fall work?

The process of harvesting energy from a natural water fall involves using a turbine to capture the kinetic energy of the falling water and convert it into mechanical energy. The mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy through a generator, which can be used to power various devices.

2. What are the benefits of harvesting energy from natural water fall?

There are several benefits to harvesting energy from natural water falls. Firstly, it is a renewable source of energy, meaning it does not deplete natural resources. Additionally, it is a clean source of energy, producing minimal pollution. It also has the potential to provide a consistent and reliable source of energy.

3. What are some challenges of implementing an engineering project for harvesting energy from natural water fall?

One of the main challenges of implementing this type of project is finding a suitable location with a natural water fall that has enough flow and height to generate significant energy. Another challenge is designing and building a turbine and generator system that can withstand the force of the falling water and efficiently convert the energy into electricity.

4. How much energy can be generated from a natural water fall?

The amount of energy that can be generated from a natural water fall depends on the flow rate and height of the water fall. Generally, the higher the water fall and the greater the flow rate, the more energy can be generated. However, it is important to conduct a feasibility study to accurately determine the potential energy output of a specific water fall.

5. What are some potential applications for the energy generated from a natural water fall?

The energy generated from a natural water fall can be used for a variety of applications, such as powering homes and businesses, irrigation systems, and water treatment facilities. It can also be used to charge electric vehicles or stored in batteries for later use. The possibilities are endless and can greatly benefit communities and industries in remote areas.

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