Design considerations for an ultra-low-head Kaplan turbine system

Abstract

Interests in utilizing small hydraulic systems are increasing recently, and new technology was developed worldwide. In comparison to large hydraulic systems which are normally equipped with a high dam and sizeable turbine system, small hydraulic has significant environmental and economic advantages. Most of the research focuses on small hydraulic systems that operating between a 2m-30m head condition or zero head hydraulic kinetic conversion system. However, the ultra-low head condition (head condition between 1m-3m) is another attractive, renewable and effective resource for developing a hydraulic system. Traditional hydraulic turbines like the Francis, Crossflow, and Kaplan turbines were all been modified and designed for small hydraulic systems. However, designing for ultra-low head (ULH) condition required some non-traditional design considerations which had not been yet proposed. This paper proposes several overall geometry design considerations for developing a ULH Kaplan turbine.