Title
Hydraulic Model Studies on Bulb Turbine Intakes
Publication Date
1983
Keywords
bulb turbines, design, entrance, hydraulic models, hydroelectric plants, intake, low head turbines, model studies, turbines, velocity distribution, water velocity
Report number
REC-ERC-82-14
Publication place
Denver, CO
Publisher
United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation
Abstract
Intakes for bulb and rim generator turbines are very large in relation to their runner diameters. Because the water velocity is low in the intake area, the losses are small. This report describes research on the effect that simplifying the intake design has on energy losses and flow distribution. Using straight surfaces in place of curved bellmouth entrances and shortening the length of the intake could significantly reduce construction costs. In addition, reducing the intake size would reduce the size of trashracks, gates, and associated operating equipment.