Pumps as mini hydros

[Peckett]

We are looking at using pumps as small turbines in an effort to reduce the cost of small turbine installations (30-100kW). Does anyone have any experience with the use of pumps in this application.


Thanks,

 

[budt]

I can't imagine a hydraulic pump or motor operating at the low pressure I think you are dealing with. Usually these pumps or motors require 50-200 PSI to overcome internal friction when new and don't go much lower until they wear out.

I saw a turbine type motor at a Grist Mill in Tennessee driving the mill operations. It was operating on water that was coming from a pipe fed by a water source about 150 feet above its inlet. As I remember it was only about 15" diameter. Looked similar to a centrifugal water pump.


Bud Trinkel CFPE
HYDRA-PNEU CONSULTING, INC.
fluidpower1 @ hotmail.com

http://www.fluidpower1.us

 

[amorrison]

From my readings in the "energy crisis" 1970s

Centrifugal pumps of suitable pressure and flow work at quite high efficiencies when working in "reverse".

Search "microhydro"

Nice nomograph here to get you started

http://www.windstreampower.com/microhydro/nomograph.html