OPTIMUM SELECTION OF HYDROMECHANICAL EQUIPMENT FOR SHP STATIONS

Abstract

Hydropower is one of the most widely used methods of power generation in the world. With the prospect of rapidly depleting fossil fuels and increasing power demand, more attention is concentrating towards hydro power, particularly smaller sites, untapped till now i.e. towards small hydro power. As the hydro mechanical equipment, particularly turbines play a key role in hydro power; special attention has to be given to the turbines to make the SHP developments economically viable. Various types of turbines are available to meet the requirement of different types of SHP schemes. Out of these turbines, the best possible turbine. should be selected to harness the maximum power. But the selection of turbine is a critical process as it depends upon a number of factors. Some factors are such that they conflict one another. Under the present study an attempt has been made to discuss various factors, which affect in turbine selection. Apart from technical and economic considerations some site-specific considerations have also been discussed. These factors have been studied for various types of turbines with respect to the related parameters. Based on the various factors discussed under the present study, a methodology for optimum turbine selection has been evolved by considering cost and performance as major factors. Software to facilitate in for optimum selection of hydro turbine has also been prepared. In addition to this, some other hydro mechanical equipment like gates and valves has also been studied.