Design of Microturbines Kaplan and Turgo for Microgeneration Systems: Challenges and Adaptations

Teresa Maria Reyna, Santiago Reyna, María Lábaque, César Riha, Belén Irazusta, and Agustín Fragueiro

Faculty of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences, National University of Cordoba, Argentina

Abstract: The mini-hydraulic systems can be used in all cases where a watercourse is available, even if small, with a fall of even a few meters. The introduction of hydroelectric mini-systems has a reduced impact since the majority use of the watercourse, which may be vital for the provision of isolated areas, is not modified. Mini-hydraulics is the term that is used for hydroelectric power plants of less than 10 MW. Hydroelectric mini-plants are simple, environmentally friendly and useful for near-installation applications. They require a few components: turbine group — generator — and a regulatory system. In order to accelerate the implementation of alternative systems in rural areas, and to make this a standard practice, it is necessary to develop equipment adapted to the conditions of the area; and adapt them for their progressive production in local industries. There is an unmet demand for reliable equipment that can supply small amounts of energy at low cost. In this context, three projects with the aim of to designing micro turbines have been developed at the National University of Córdoba with the objective of establishing the feasibility of construction and development with local technology.

Key words: microturbines, microgeneration systems, renewable energy, micro hydroelectric