Hydroelectric power power plant

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SUMMARY

The minimum height requirement of 34 meters for hydroelectric power plants is primarily linked to the efficiency of energy generation. Greater drop height increases the kinetic energy of water, enhancing turbine performance. While low-head hydroelectric plants can operate at heights of 3 meters or less, they generate significantly less power. Notable examples include the Hoover Dam, which utilizes Pelton turbines for high kinetic energy generation, and the Three Gorges Dam, which employs standard turbines at a shorter height.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydroelectric power generation principles
  • Knowledge of turbine types, specifically Pelton and standard turbines
  • Familiarity with gravitational acceleration effects on fluid dynamics
  • Basic concepts of potential and kinetic energy in hydropower systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the efficiency differences between Pelton and standard turbines in hydroelectric applications
  • Explore the design and engineering principles behind high-head versus low-head hydroelectric plants
  • Investigate the impact of water flow rates on energy generation in hydroelectric systems
  • Learn about the environmental considerations and regulations for constructing hydroelectric dams
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, energy policy makers, environmental scientists, and anyone involved in the design and operation of hydroelectric power plants.

partha1963
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Sir, why for a hydroelectric power power plant, the minimum height is 34 meter.? Please explain
 
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I was unaware of that requirement, unless you mean for a specific capacity of generation. More drop means more kinetic energy impinging the turbines or paddle wheel or whatever. I've seen farm units that work from only 3 metres or less, but they don't produce much.
 
I would have to agree with the previous post. The higher the water is dropped from, then the more time the water will have to be affected by gravitational acceleration. Due to this principle, the water will be faster as it strikes the turbine if dropped from a greater height. That is why we see dams as very tall, very large structures.
 
Minor caveat: most low-head hydroelectric plants use the potential energy directly, without converting it to kinetic energy first.

Hoover dam = tall = kinetic energy (Pelton turbine)
Three Gorges Dam = shorter = standard turbine.

But the basic points still stand: no minimum head requirement and taller means more energy at the same flow.
 

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