LAYOUT AND CALCULATION OF ADEOUATE APACE FOR REACTION TURBINES

A major issue considered in the feasibility studies of hydropower plants, is the layout and calculation of adequate space for the turbines and the related equipments. The turbine type and capacity can be determined through useful design head and designed discharge values. On the other hand, two different types of turbines may be considered in most evaluations, where dimensions and layout of turbine and generator are different ineach case and each will have to undergo an evaluation study. As an example, such selection may be made between Francis and Kaplan turbines, or between Kaplan and Bulb turbines. Said turbines have a common range of performance capability. Selection of a specific speed is a highly important factor in designing a turbine. By studying various essays on reaction turbines and with respect to manufacturers' experience and the statistical data compiled in this respect, we may chose a speci ic speed where satisfactory performance and efficiency is obtained with smaller turbine and generator dimensions.