Performance Test of Pelton Turbine

Experiment # 1

I. Objective
1. To perform the Pelton turbine experiment using the theoretical procedures.
2. To acquire the characteristic curve of the Pelton turbine experiment.
3. To test the performance of the Pelton Turbine by varying the parameters.

II. Materials and Apparatus

1 set of Counterweights
1 pc. of Meter stick/ Steel tape
1 set of Pelton turbine set up

III. Theory
The Pelton turbine is a hydraulic impulse machine developed in 1889 by Lester Allan
Pelton. The buckets are impacted by water jets, and the kinetic energy of the water is
transformed into mechanical energy, and nally electrical power. Design of the bucket is an
important issue for the turbine eciency. Pelton turbines are usually used with high heads and
with relatively low-volume ows. The water is accelerated through the nozzle and the pressure
energy is converted into velocity energy at the outlet of the nozzle. The kinetic energy of the
water is converted into rotational energy by deecting the water jets ow in the impeller, which
generates mechanical energy on the shaft.

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Figure 1. Pelton turbine parts

The runner of the Pelton turbine consists of double hemispherical cups. The jet strikes these cups
(buckets) at the central dividing edge which is known as splitter. The water jet strikes edge of the
splitter symmetrically and equally distributed into the two halves of hemispherical bucket.

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Figure 2. Runner of Pelton turbine

The angular deflection of the jet in the bucket is limited to about (165 to 170 degree). The
amount of water discharges from the nozzle is regulated by a needle valve provided inside the
nozzle as shown in fig. 3.

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Figure 3. Components of nozzle

A. Velocity Components and Efficiency
The overall eciency will be less than maximum theoretical eciency because of friction in
bearing, windage, backsplashing and non-uniform bucket ow. Assuming there are no losses, all
of the hydraulic potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, and the theoretical maximum
jet velocity is,
Ek = Ep
mVj2 = mgH
Vj =

Eqn. 1

2 gH

In a single Pelton bucket, where u is the impeller velocity and is the exit angle of the jet. For a
Pelton wheel where buckets keep entering the jet and capture all the ow, the mass ow would
be Q = AjVj, from the Euler turbomachine equation. The absolute exit and inlet tangential
bucket velocity is equal (u1 = u2 = u). The turbine power relation is then,
P = Q(u1Vt1 u2Vt2) = QuVj u[u + (Vj u)cos]
P = Qu(Vj u)(1 cos)
Where u = 2nr is the bucket linear velocity and r is the pitch radius, or distance to the jet
centerline.

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Eqn. 2

Figure 4.: (a) side view of wheel and jet, (b) top view of bucket, (c) velocity diagram
The theoretical power of a Pelton turbine is maximum when dP/du = 0 or when,
u = 2nr =

1
V
2 j

Eqn. 3

For a perfect nozzle, the entire available head would be converted to jet velocity Vj =
A velocity coecient Cv is used (Vj = Cv

2 gH .

2 gH ). The theoretical impulse turbine eciency

than becomes,
= 2(1cos)(Cv )

u
2 gH

= peripheral velocity factor

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Eqn. 4

B. Velocity Triangles
Since the angle of entry of the jet is nearly zero, the inlet velocity triangle is a straight line, as
shown in Fig. 3.2. If the bucket is brought to rest, then the relative uid velocity, V1, is given by
V1 = jet velocity bucket speed

Eqn. 5

V1 = C1 U1

Figure 5. Velocity Triangle for Pelton turbine

velocity, C2, at exit can be obtained by adding bucket speed vector U2 and relative velocity, V2, at
exit. Now using Eulers equation
W = U1CW1 U2CW2

Eqn. 6

Since in this case CW2 is in the negative x direction,

U + V 1 )+ [ V 1 cos (180 )U ]}
W = U {(

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Eqn. 7

Neglecting loss due to friction across the bucket surface, that is, V1 = V2, then
W = U(V1 V1cos

Eqn. 8

Therefore,
E = U(C1 U)(1 - cos /g

Eqn. 9

By differentiating Eqn. 9 with respect to U and equating it to zero we get,

dE (1cos ) ( C 12 U )
=
=0
dU
g
Then,
C1 = 2U

Eqn. 10

E = C12(1 cos )/4g

Eqn. 11

Substituting Eqn. 10 to Eqn. 9 we get,

If surface friction is present, V1 V2, so Eqn. 9 becomes,

E = U(C1 U)(1 - kcos /g

where, k =

V2
V1

Introducing hydraulic efficiency as

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Eqn. 12

energy transferred
energy available jet

C. Rectangular Weir
Consider a rectangular weir over which the water is flowing as shown in figure 6.

Fig 6 Rectangular Weir

Fig.7 Cross-section view of a rectangular weir

The equation is derived in the same way as that for a large rectangular orifice, this simply
being the situation where the water surface has fallen below the top of the opening. The basis of

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the method is to apply the energy equation (Bernoulli) to two points on a streamline, point 1
being on the water surface some distance upstream of the weir, and point 2 being in the nappe as
it passes over the weir crest at a depth, h, below the water surface. There are a number of
assumptions that should be listed in connection with the derivation, since they are of significance
later on. They are:
i

That the water discharges over the weir from the surface of a large reservoir, so it
can be assumed that the velocity of approach is negligible and the pressure is
atmospheric. In other words, V1 = 0 and P1 = 0.

ii

That the nappe is at atmospheric pressure. Thus if atmospheric pressure is used as

a datum, P2 = 0.

iii

There are no energy losses.

iv

The velocity in the nappe varies with depth, H, that is V = (2gH) 1/2 but there is no
variation in velocity across the length, L, of the weir crest.

The nappe is as wide as the weir crest, which is it also has a length, L.

vi

The streamlines are horizontal as they pass over the weir crest.

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If a thin horizontal strip of length, L, and thickness, dh, is taken across the nappe at a
depth, H, see diagram above, then area of the strip is dA = Ldh; velocity of flow through the
strip = (2gh); and discharge through the strip, dQ = area x velocity =L(2gh)1/2dh
dh at a depth

Let us consider a horizontal strip of water of thickness

from the water

surface as shown in the figure; H is the height of the water above the crest of the weir, L is the
length of the weir and Cdis the coefficient of discharge. If the area of the strip =
we know that the theoretical velocity of water through the strip =
through the strip is

( 2 gH )

L. d , and

so discharge

dq=C d ( area of strip )( theoretical velocity ) , substitute the equation we

get:
dq=C d ( L . d ) ( ( 2 gH ) ) Eqn. 13

The total discharge, over the weir, may be found out by integrating the above equation within the
limits 0 and H.
3

2
Q= C d L 2 g ( H ) 2 Eqn. 14
3

D. Output Power Measurements of the Pelton Turbine

A dynamometer is a device that measures force. In one common type of dynamometer,
the force is measured by braking action. One of the first such dynamometers was developed
by the French mathematician, Gaspard de Prony (1755-1839) and is called a Prony Brake.
The principle of the Prony Brake is that an engine or motor is directly coupled to a drum that
has a tensioned, friction belt around it. As the drum revolves, the frictional force is measured.

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Torque is the product of the tangential force and perpendicular distance from the line of
action of force of the axis of rotation where F is the tangential force applied and d is the
perpendicular distance from the line of action where T =Fd .
The power P = Fu or T. In terms of u, P = 2u(V - u)Q. By taking the derivative of P with
respect to u and setting it equal to zero, we find that maximum power occurs when u = V/2,
and this power is V2Q/2, or ghQ. This is the energy content of the water from the jet, so the
efficiency is unity, with all the energy of the jet turned into shaft output. For any velocity u,
the efficiency is = 4u(V-u)/V2. It is zero for u = 0 and for u = V. This analysis should have
been clear and easy to follow. It illustrates the princple of the Pelton wheel very well, and
actual wheels are not too far from ideal. When a Pelton wheel is working close to maximum
efficiency, the water drops easily from the wheel, with a little turmoil, but not much velocity.

Figure 8. Prony Brake Set up

E. Components of the Pelton Turbine

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Figure 9. Components of the Pelton Turbine

These are the components of the Pelton Turbine Set up as shown in figure 9.

Nozzle: the amount of water striking the vanes (buckets) of the runner is controlled by
providing a spear (flow regulating arrangement) in the nozzle.

Spear: the spear is a conical needle which is operated either by a hand wheel or
automatically in an axial direction depending upon the size of the unit.

Runner with bucket: runner of Pelton wheel consists of a circular disc on the periphery
of which a number of buckets evenly spaced are fixed.

Casing: casing is to prevent the splashing of the water and to discharge water to tail
race. It is made up of cast iron or steel plate.

Breaking jet: when the nozzle is completely closed by moving the spear in the forward
direction the amount of water striking the runner reduce to zero.

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But the runner due to inertia goes on revolving for a long time. To stop the runner in a short time,
a small nozzle is providing which directs the jet of water on the back of vanes. This jet of water
is called breaking jet.

Governing mechanism: speed of turbine runner is required to be maintained constant so

that electric generator coupled directly to turbine.

F. Working and Efficiency of the Pelton Turbine

The amount of water striking the vanes (buckets) of the runner is controlled by
providing a spear (flow regulating arrangement) in the nozzle. Then the efficient nozzle
that converts the hydraulic energy into a high speed jet. The turbine rotor is called runner.
The impact jet of water is striking on the runner and runner revolves at constant with the
help of governing mechanism. The runner shaft is connected with the generator; thus the
electricity is produce with the help of generator.

The following are the efficiencies of the Pelton Turbine:

Mechanical efficiencies: It is ratio of the shaft power to the water power.

Hydraulic efficiencies: It is ratio of the power developed at the turbine runner to the

power supplied by the water jet at entrance to the turbine.

Volumetric efficiencies: It is ratio of the theoretical to the actual discharge.
Overall efficiencies: It is ratio of the shaft power to the water power.

IV. Procedure
A. Pelton turbine set-up

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Figure 10. Schematic Diagram of Pelton Turbine Set-up

1. Axial pump

Fig.11. Axial Pump

An axial-flow pump, or AFP, is a common type of pump that essentially consists

of a propeller (an axial impeller) in a pipe. The propeller can be driven directly by a
sealed motor in the pipe or by electric motor or petrol/diesel engines mounted to the pipe
from the outside or by a right-angle drive shaft that pierces the pipe.
2. Centrifugal pump

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Fig 12. Centrifugal Pump

A centrifugal pump converts the input power to kinetic energy in the liquid by
accelerating the liquid by a revolving device - an impeller. The most common type is the
volute pump. Fluid enters the pump through the eye of the impeller which rotates at high
speed. The fluid is accelerated radially outward from the pump chasing. A vacuum is
created at the impellers eye that continuously draws more fluid into the pump.

3. Pressure tank

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Fig. 13. Pressure Tank

A pressure vessel is a closed container designed to hold gases or liquids at a
pressure substantially different from the ambient pressure.

Note: When closing the valves, rotate the valve to clockwise direction. Counterclockwise when
opening the valve.
Run the Pelton Turbine
1. Close the gate valves that may lead to other machineries to ensure that the water is
directed to the Pelton turbine,

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2. Make sure that the gate valve near the Pelton turbine is close to protect the turbine
buckets form sudden inflows. See fig. 14 below.

Gate Valve

Fig. 14. Gate valve near Pelton turbine

3. The by-pass valve near the centrifugal pump must be fully open and the gate valve near
the centrifugal pump must be closed. See fig. 15.

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By-pass Valve

Gate Valve

Fig. 15. Gate valve and By-pass valve near Centrifugal pump

4. Open the primer cup. See fig. 16 below.

Priming Cup
Gas cut

Fig. 16. Priming cup and Gas cut

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5. Turn on the axial pump to start priming (See fig. 17). The water is starting to fill the
casing of the centrifugal pump. Make sure that the foot valve must be open to ensure the
water would pass to the casing of the centrifugal pump. This process may take few
minutes.

On switch
Off switch

Fig. 17. Axial pump switch

6. After the primer cup is filled with water, make sure that there is no air that is trapped
inside the centrifugal pump by opening the gas cut (See fig. 16). Do this when no more
bubbles and sound is produced in the primer cup.
7. After ensuring that there is no more air that is being trapped inside, close the gas cut and
primer cup.
8. Next step is to turn on the centrifugal pump (See fig. 18). Two students are required for
this step. One student will press the switch of the centrifugal pump and the other student
will open the gate valve that is near the centrifugal pump as fast as he can. The student
who will press the switch will signal the student who open the gate valve on the time the
switch was being pressed.

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On switch
Off switch

Fig. 18. Centrifugal Pump switch

NOTE: Read the instructions carefully and ask questions if not sure
9. After opening the gate valve near the centrifugal pump, open the gate valve near the
Pelton turbine slowly until the runner of the Pelton turbine starts to rotate.
10. To control the pressure passing through the gate valve near the centrifugal pump, slowly
close the by-pass valve until the desired pressure is achieved.

Start the Experiment proper

1. Adjust the spear setting on the Pelton turbine by rotating the spear rod. Adjust the
pressure by turning the by-pass valve slowly.
2. Place the weights on the holder that is connected to the lever of the prony brake. Make
sure that the lever is balanced. Record the weight and the speed of the shaft. Calculate the
torque.
3. Record the weir height and calculate the flow rate.
NOTE: Call the laboratory assistant or instructor if in doubt. Do not run the prony brake
without the water lubricating it.

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Shut down the Pelton Turbine

1. Close the gate valve near the Pelton turbine and fully open the by-pass valve.
2. Slowly close the gate calve near the centrifugal pump and when pressure almost reaches
to 4 kg/cm2 press the switch of the centrifugal pump and close the gate valve quickly.

V. Suggested Tabulation of Results

The results can be presented as a table of results including turbine speed, torque, power, pressure
and flowrate. Graphs of spear setting and input and output power may also be presented. Do the
procedures as many trials as possible at different pressure.

Table 1. Sample of tabulated data gathered

Spear Setting

Load (g)

RPM

Head (cm)

1
2

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Pout (W)

Pin (W)

3
4
5
6
7
8

VI. References
Aung Kyaw Minn, (2014), Design of 225kW Pelton Turbine
DraughtyM, Hydraulic Turbines,McGraw Hill Book Company,1920, Third Edition
Garshelis, I. ( 2000). "Torque and Power Measurement." CRC Press LLC

Kjartan Furnes, (2013), Flow in Pelton Trubines

Marcel Dekker, (2003), Hydraulic Turbine
R. L. Daugherty and J. B. Franzini, Fluid Mechanics, 6th ed. (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1965).
Thurston, R. (1890). A handbook of engine and boiler trials, and of the indicator and Prony
brake: For engineers and technical schools J. Wiley and Sons.
Singal, R. K. (2009). Hydraulic Machines: Fluid Machinery. I. K. International Pvt Ltd

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