Increasing the Power Output of a Turbine

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on increasing the power output of a hydro turbine currently producing 1.1183kW at 62.746RPM with 170.195Nm of torque. Achieving a target output of 4.5kW cannot be accomplished solely through the use of a gearbox, as it cannot exceed 100% efficiency and does not increase overall power output. To achieve the desired power increase, one must enhance the water flow or height by a factor of four, or double the water speed. Alternatively, implementing four separate systems may be necessary to meet the power requirements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydro turbine mechanics
  • Knowledge of power calculations (Power = Torque * RPM)
  • Familiarity with gearbox efficiency and limitations
  • Concepts of fluid dynamics related to flow and height
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods to increase water flow in hydro systems
  • Explore techniques for enhancing water height in hydroelectric setups
  • Learn about the impact of water speed on turbine efficiency
  • Investigate the design and implementation of multiple turbine systems
USEFUL FOR

Hydraulic engineers, renewable energy developers, and anyone involved in optimizing hydro turbine performance.

Caledonian14
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I have a hydro turbine spinning at 62.746RPM and it produces 170.195Nm of torque.
It generates 1.1183kW but ideally, I would like to step it up to at least 4.5kW.
Is this possible using a gearbox and if so how can it be done?
 
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Welcome to PF.
First you must identify the factors that limit power now.
Power is torque * RPM. A gearbox changes the ratio of torque to RPM, but it will probably not change the power output.
To get 4 times the power you need to increase the flow or the height by a factor of 4, or the water speed by a factor of 2.
You might also consider 4 separate systems.
 
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You can't do it with just a gearbox as that would violate conservation of energy. Gearboxes can never be more than 100% efficient, they always have losses.
 

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