The feasibility of using centrifugal pumps as turbines for small scale hydropower schemes | |
| Author | Pe Than Hline |
| Call Number | AIT RSPR no. ET-85-11 |
| Subject(s) | Hydroelectric generators Centrifugal pumps |
| Note | A Research Study (6 Credit) submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Engineering, School of Environment, Resources and Development |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | The world energy situation has led to the extensive research of new energy systems and the revival and improvement of older and existing systems. Many efficient hydroelectric power systems have been developed for small scale electrification of rural areas in developing countries. This study has explored the field of rural electrification by an as yet not very extensively used non - conventional form of energy extraction from hydropower. The use of centrifugal pumps run in reverse as hydraulic turbines is considered in this study as an alternative to the more expensive and sophisticated conventional systems, especially for cases where low first cost is more important than efficiency. From the experimental results obtained in this study it was observed that using centrifugal pumps as turbines was both technically and economically feasible. In this particular case , a commercial run-off-the-shelf centrifugal pump wit h a best efficiency of 54% was observed t o be able to run as a turbine with a best efficiency of 42%, and a n equipment (turbine only) cost of US $ 256.5/kW capacity of electrical energy. I t was also observed that the best efficiency point of the unit run as turbine occurred at a head a nd flow rate lower than that predicted theoretically. |
| Year | 1985 |
| Type | Research Study Project Report (RSPR) |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Other Field of Studies (No Department) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Energy Technology (ET) |
| Chairperson(s) | Prida Wilbulswas |
| Examination Committee(s) | Bhattacharya, Sribas C. ;Sauter-Servaes, Florian |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) |
| Degree | Research Studies Project Report (M. Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1985 |