What is the problem with Tesla turbine Nozzles?

In summary, the problem with Tesla turbine nozzles is that they are not as efficient as traditional turbine nozzles. This is due to the fact that they do not use blades, but instead rely on friction to generate power. This results in a lower conversion rate of energy, making them less practical for industrial use. Additionally, the design of the nozzles can be complex and difficult to manufacture, leading to higher costs and potential maintenance issues. Despite these challenges, Tesla turbines still have potential for use in niche applications, such as in low-power, low-speed situations. Further research and development may be necessary to address these problems and make Tesla turbine nozzles a more viable option for widespread use.
  • #1
Storm_Eagle
9
0
Hi. I have read about Tesla turbines. What i have found is that it is actually weary little research published on the subject. And as i understand it the main problem with them is the inefficiency in the nozzles used. While the turbine rotor efficiency in it self is really good.

But what exactly makes the nozzles people have tried using inefficient?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Storm_Eagle said:
Hi. I have read about Tesla turbines. What i have found is that it is actually weary little research published on the subject. And as i understand it the main problem with them is the inefficiency in the nozzles used. While the turbine rotor efficiency in it self is really good.

But what exactly makes the nozzles people have tried using inefficient?
Can you provide more links and technical details please? That would make it easier for us to address your question. Thanks.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_turbine
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
Can you provide more links and technical details please? That would make it easier for us to address your question. Thanks.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_turbine
Well for example this report:
https://repository.asu.edu/attachments/97903/content//tmp/package-ufqfxU/Peshlakai_asu_0010N_12439.pdf
It gives rotor efficiency of over 90% witch is really good and it is also in line with other reports and pages i have read, but still the overall efficiency is typically lower than other types of turbines and typically around 30-40% from what i have read. And in the reports i have read (including the linked report) the major factor for the loss in efficiency is contributed to the design of the nozzles.
So the Tesla turbine in it self looks like a really good turbine, but the nozzles is preventing it from reaching it's potential. So as the original question said: What is the problem with Tesla turbine nozzles?
 
  • #4
Did you read the references cited in that paper you linked?
2. Hoya, G.P., Guha, A., 2009, “The design of a test rig and study of the performance and efficiency of a Tesla disc turbine”. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part A: Journal of Power and Energy, 223, pp. 451-465.

5. Guha, A., Smiley, B., 2009, “Experiment and analysis for an improved design of the inlet and nozzle in Tesla disc turbines”, Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part A: Journal of Power and Energy, 224, pp. 261-277.
 

1. What is a Tesla turbine nozzle?

A Tesla turbine nozzle is a component of the Tesla turbine, an unconventional type of turbine invented by Nikola Tesla in the early 20th century. The nozzle is a series of small, closely spaced discs that direct the flow of fluid into the turbine.

2. What is the purpose of the nozzle in a Tesla turbine?

The nozzle in a Tesla turbine is responsible for directing the flow of fluid into the turbine, creating a vortex that drives the rotation of the discs. It is a crucial component that helps to maximize the efficiency of the turbine.

3. What are some common problems associated with Tesla turbine nozzles?

One of the main problems with Tesla turbine nozzles is that they are prone to clogging. The small gaps between the discs can easily become blocked by debris or sediment, which can greatly reduce the efficiency of the turbine. Additionally, the high speeds and pressures involved in the turbine's operation can cause erosion and wear on the nozzles over time.

4. How can these problems with Tesla turbine nozzles be addressed?

To prevent clogging, regular maintenance and cleaning of the nozzles is necessary. Additionally, using a filter or pre-filter to remove larger debris before it reaches the turbine can help. To address erosion and wear, materials with high resistance to corrosion and abrasion can be used for the nozzles, and the design of the turbine can be optimized to reduce the impact on the nozzles.

5. Are there any alternative designs or materials for Tesla turbine nozzles?

While the original Tesla turbine design uses metal discs for the nozzles, there have been some alternative designs that use ceramic or plastic discs instead. These materials can offer better resistance to erosion and corrosion, but they may also have lower strength and durability compared to metal nozzles. Ultimately, the choice of material and design for the nozzles will depend on the specific application and operating conditions of the turbine.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
7K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
26
Views
11K
Replies
26
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
8
Views
800
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
7K
  • Mechanical Engineering
2
Replies
48
Views
15K
Replies
31
Views
3K
Back
Top