Use of composite materials for the turbine, in order to improve its efficiency.

The project consist in creation of an touristic lake by mean of erection of a small dam on the Lot river. This structure, of about 5 m height will be equiped with a small hydro-electric power plant of 20 m3/s maximum flow rate.
The turbine will be equiped with variable pitch blades and variable angle distribution.
An industrial scale test is foreseen in view to evaluate the conditions of using composite materials for construction of mains parts of the turbine as:
- shell of the wheel,
- distributor, blades,
- wheel nose and miscellaneous effects housings,
in order to analyse its positive effects on:
- improvement of hydraulic forms,
- corrosion resistance,
- facility of construction.
Prior to the construction, series of preliminary selection tests will be realised on the various existing composites.
After construction, controls will be carried out in order to check mechanical resistance and abrasion on materials.