Objective
To exploit very low head hydro sites by the conversion of hydro power to pneumatic power to drive a self rectifying wells air turbine.
The unit has been installed and initial testing is in hand modifications to the outlet ducting and the partial removal of an upstream screen are being carried out as the present arrangements are adversely affecting the efficiency of the system.
The project entails the repair and modification of an existing mill tailrace and the installation of an oscillating water column device and associated control and monitoring equipment. Two adjacent airtight columns are alternately filled and emptied by water, this oscillating motion pushing air through a pneumatic (wells) turbine. This device, which is self-rectifying and always rotates in the same direction, will drive an external generator. Hydraulic control is by simple flip gates which direct the water inflow and outflow to and from the two columns.
Technical details
Hydraulic-head 1-3 m
flow 3 m3/s
Electric-rating 37 kW
The electricity produced will be supplied to the landowner and a local priory.
Topic(s)
Data not availableCall for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
DEM - Demonstration contractsCoordinator
BT7 INN BELFAST
United Kingdom