Constructing and Testing a Hydrokinetic Generator
Faculty Sponsor(s)
Joelle Murray
Location
Jereld R. Nicholson Library
Subject Area
Physics
Description
As Earth’s expendable resources dwindle, the need for alternative, renewable energy sources grows. Out of this need, an old favorite source is rising in popularity: small, single dwelling water turbines. Water-driven turbines first began as a means for turning mills, and eventually evolved into massive dams that can power whole regions. The benefit of smaller turbines, like micro- and pico-hydro power sizes, is that they can be used in streams, especially in remote areas, places that solar or wind energy is not feasible, or anywhere that even a small stream is accessible. This project focused on the construction of, and testing the properties of, a small pico-hydro power turbine. By controlling the water flow, a representation of the peak power output was measured, serving as a basis for determining the value of pico-power systems in regards to the world’s current energy production.
Recommended Citation
Carleson, Matthew Daniel, "Constructing and Testing a Hydrokinetic Generator" (2015). Linfield University Student Symposium: A Celebration of Scholarship and Creative Achievement. Event. Submission 44.
https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/symposium/2015/all/44
Constructing and Testing a Hydrokinetic Generator
Jereld R. Nicholson Library
As Earth’s expendable resources dwindle, the need for alternative, renewable energy sources grows. Out of this need, an old favorite source is rising in popularity: small, single dwelling water turbines. Water-driven turbines first began as a means for turning mills, and eventually evolved into massive dams that can power whole regions. The benefit of smaller turbines, like micro- and pico-hydro power sizes, is that they can be used in streams, especially in remote areas, places that solar or wind energy is not feasible, or anywhere that even a small stream is accessible. This project focused on the construction of, and testing the properties of, a small pico-hydro power turbine. By controlling the water flow, a representation of the peak power output was measured, serving as a basis for determining the value of pico-power systems in regards to the world’s current energy production.
