Why aren't turbines used in water supply systems?

In summary, the conversation discusses the idea of using rotating mill turbines in water pipes to generate electricity. However, it is not commonly done due to the increased load on the distribution system and potential complaints from customers about water pressure and flow. The concept is currently utilized for self-powered water meters, but on a smaller scale. Additionally, pumping water uphill to store energy is a practice used in certain areas, but not for drinking water.
  • #1
rasen58
71
2
I had an idea to put a rotating mill turbine into the pipes that supply water to home tap systems.
So that as the water flows through, the turbine is spun and electricity is produced.

But why isn't this actually done?
 
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  • #2
Why increase the load on a distribution system to produce less energy than you already have to put into deliver water?
 
  • #3
But wouldn't the turbine in the pipe regain some of the energy used to pump the water initially?
 
  • #4
rasen58 said:
some of the energy used to pump the water initially?
Yes, and the customers would complain that tap pressure and flow was inadequate. You'd have to put in bigger pumps in the distribution system, and the extra power required to run them would not be offset by the inline turbines.
 
  • #5
rasen58 said:
But why isn't this actually done?

It is actually done, just on a larger ... and somewhat different scale.

Bysdander said:
Yes, and the customers would complain that tap pressure and flow was inadequate. You'd have to put in bigger pumps in the distribution system, and the extra power required to run them would not be offset by the inline turbines.

Lol... no doubt about that... there's always a trade off ... :oldwink:
 
  • #6
Note that this idea is utilized for self powered water meters, but they don't capture much energy, lest they adversely affect the flow.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/amphiro-a1-the-self-powered-smart-water-meter-for-the-shower#description [Broken]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #7
well were I live there's not much pumping going on, all water comes from the mountain sources above.

I guess it affects flow though, as it restricts the passage of the water.

For flat areas with water towers, you could probably spare money by not pumping the water so high in the first place.

Pumping water uphill as a way to store energy when there is too much production is actually done with nuclear energy and hydroelectric dams during the night, but that's not drinking water.
 

1. Why aren't turbines used in water supply systems?

There are several reasons why turbines are not commonly used in water supply systems. One of the main reasons is the cost of installation and maintenance. Turbines require large and expensive structures to be built in order to harness the power of water, making them less practical for smaller or remote water supply systems. Additionally, turbines may not be suitable for all types of water sources, such as low-flow or variable-flow rivers, and may not provide a consistent and reliable source of energy.

2. Can turbines be used in all types of water supply systems?

No, turbines may not be suitable for all types of water supply systems. Turbines require a consistent and strong flow of water in order to generate electricity, which may not be possible in some water sources. Additionally, the cost of installing and maintaining turbines may not be justified for smaller or remote water supply systems.

3. Are there any environmental concerns with using turbines in water supply systems?

Yes, there are some potential environmental concerns with using turbines in water supply systems. The construction of large structures to support the turbines can disrupt the natural flow of water and impact local ecosystems. Additionally, the turbines themselves may pose a threat to fish and other aquatic animals if they are not properly designed and maintained.

4. How do turbines generate electricity in water supply systems?

Turbines generate electricity by converting the energy of moving water into mechanical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy. The blades of the turbine are turned by the force of the flowing water, which then spins a generator to produce electricity. This process is similar to how turbines work in other types of power generation, such as wind or hydroelectric power.

5. Are there any alternative methods for generating electricity in water supply systems?

Yes, there are alternative methods for generating electricity in water supply systems. Some examples include micro-hydro systems, which use smaller turbines to generate electricity from low-flow or variable-flow water sources, and water wheels, which use the kinetic energy of flowing water to turn a wheel and generate electricity. However, these methods may also have limitations and may not be suitable for all water supply systems.

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