Design and performance testing of a four-parallel Archimedes screw turbine as a pico hydro power generation system

Abstract

The need for renewable energy sources encourages the development of efficient small-scale power generation systems for areas with low water discharge. One potential technology is the Archimedes screw turbine, because it is capable of operating at low head conditions with a simple and environmentally friendly design. This study aims to design and test the performance of a multi-screw parallel Archimedes screw turbine as the main driver of a pico hydro power generation system. The study was conducted experimentally through the design, prototype construction, and performance testing stages. Testing was carried out at a constant rotational speed of 310 rpm to assess system stability and transmission efficiency. The parameters measured included voltage, current, and output power, using a digital multimeter and tachometer as the main measuring instruments. The test results showed an average voltage of 11.8 V, current of 0.34 A, and output power of 4.01 W with a standard deviation of 0.07 W. The difference between experiments was very small, indicating that the system worked stably with good transmission efficiency. The four-screw parallel design was proven to be able to maintain torque stability and produce even power distribution. With this performance, the parallel multi-screw system has the potential to be applied to small-scale pico hydro power plants in low water discharge areas as an alternative, effective and sustainable renewable energy solution..