Performance of breastshot waterwheel in run of river conditions

Abstract

The breastshot waterwheel is one solution for increasing the electrification ratio in remote areas. However, a feasibility study of the breastshot waterwheel in river conditions has not been conducted. This study tested the performance of the breastshot waterwheel in river conditions, which has a head of 0.26 m and discharge rate of 0.09708 m3/s. Mechanical and electrical testing was conducted to determine the maximum efficiency that can be produced by this turbine. The mechanical test found the following results: a maximum power level of 112.6 W (45.5% efficiency), torque of 77.9 Nm and rotation of 13.8 rpm. The electrical test produced 11.38 W of electric power (4.6% efficiency) with a voltage of 34.48 V and current of 0.33 A. Based on the test results, the breastshot waterwheel may be used as an independent power plant in remote areas due to its efficiency. In addition, the study results reveal that this turbine is not significantly affected by the garbage (household waste) in the water.