High-Efficiency Pelton Turbine for Hydropower 500kW-20MW | Compact Hydropower System for Sustainable Energy | Small-Scale Water Turbine Power Plant
Pelton Turbine (Pelton Wheel Turbine) - An Efficient High-Head Hydropower Solution
The Pelton turbine, also known as the Pelton wheel turbine, is a highly efficient impulse-type hydraulic turbine specifically engineered to harness the kinetic energy of high-velocity water jets and convert it into mechanical energy. Unlike reaction turbines such as the Francis and Kaplan turbines—which rely on both pressure and flow energy and are better suited for low-to-medium head, high-flow applications—the Pelton turbine excels in high-head, low-flow conditions, making it ideal for mountainous regions, steep hydropower sites, and locations with significant elevation drops.
Key Design & Operational Features
Impulse-Based Energy Conversion
- Unlike reaction turbines that operate submerged in water, the Pelton turbine functions in an atmospheric environment, relying solely on the kinetic impact of high-speed water jets striking its specially designed bucket-shaped blades (or "cups").
- Water is accelerated through a nozzle, forming a high-velocity jet that impacts the runner, transferring momentum with minimal energy loss.
Unique Bucket Design for Maximum Efficiency
- The runner (wheel) is fitted with double-cupped buckets, which are symmetrically split to redirect water flow 180 degrees, ensuring near-complete energy extraction.
- This design minimizes residual water velocity, allowing efficiencies of up to 90% or higher in well-optimized systems.
Horizontal & Vertical Configurations
- Pelton turbines can be installed in horizontal (single-jet or multi-jet) or vertical arrangements, depending on power requirements and site constraints.
- Multi-jet horizontal designs are common for higher power outputs, distributing load evenly and reducing rotor speed.
- Vertical-axis Pelton turbines are sometimes used in compact installations, though they may experience higher mechanical losses due to bearing friction and windage.
Adaptability to Variable Flow Conditions
- Equipped with adjustable nozzles (spear valves), Pelton turbines can regulate water flow without significant efficiency losses, making them suitable for variable discharge scenarios, such as seasonal water supply or ecological dam releases.
Applications
- Mountainous hydropower plants
- Small-scale micro-hydro systems
- Water supply networks with excess pressure (e.g., aqueduct energy recovery)
- Off-grid renewable energy projects
Comparison with Other Turbines
| Feature | Pelton Turbine | Francis Turbine | Kaplan Turbine |
| Type | Impulse | Reaction | Reaction |
| Head Range | High (50m-2000m) | Medium (10m-350m) | Low (<70m) |
| Flow Rate | Low | Medium-High | Very High |
| Efficiency | Up to 92% | ~90% | ~90% |
| Best For | Steep mountain streams | Dams & reservoirs | Large rivers with low head |
Technical Parameters
| Type | Pelton Turbine |
| Nozzles No. | One / Two / Four |
| Design | Horizontal / Vertical |
| Water head | 80m -- 1000m |
| Installation capacity | 500kW -- 20MW |
| Runner material | Stainless Steel (0Cr13Ni4Mo) |
| Generator type | 3-Phase Synchronous Generator |
