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Utilizing Water Turbines in Potable Water Systems
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Gravity drinking water systems are a large, typically untapped source for electrical energy. Turbine-generator
units can be incorporated into existing facilities or included in new water works and can range from small DC
systems, on a domestic water supply pipe, to higher output units on a large city’s water supply. Costs for adding
hydroelectric power generation to an existing water facility are relatively low due to the fact that the civil
works, such as intakes and pipelines, are already in place. When evaluating hydro turbine-generator units for a
existing water system, the following must be considered:
 | Will the turbine replace the existing pressure reducing valve (s) or will it run in parallel? |
| The proper turbine must be chosen to limit the pressure rise in the existing pipeline to a safe level. |
| Will a Reaction turbine be needed to maintain pipe pressure downstream of the turbine? |
| An Impulse turbine could be suitable if, downstream of the turbine, system pressure is at atmosphere. |
| Proper materials must be used to maintain to potable water standards. |
| Due to a wide range of heads and flows in water systems, the turbine type, design and size is critical to
realize the maximum potential energy. |
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Cities using Dependable Turbines in Potable Water Systems
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Year |
Location |
Turbine |
Head |
Output |
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1985 |
City of Portland, Washington, USA |
Francis |
30 M |
175
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KW |
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Mount Tabor Hydroelectric Project |
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1986 |
Springville City, Utah, USA |
Turgo |
87 M |
500
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KW |
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Spring Creek Hydroelectric Project |
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1990 |
City of Tacoma, Washington, USA |
Turgo |
85 M |
850
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KW |
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Hood Street Hydroelectric Project |
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1991 |
Seoul, Korea |
Francis |
44 M |
500
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KW |
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Kwang Cheon Hydroelectric Project |
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1998 |
Seoul, Korea |
Propeller |
20 M |
200
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KW |
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Puan Hydroelectric Project |
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1999 |
Monroe City, Utah, USA |
Pelton |
393 M |
260
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KW |
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Monroe Hydroelectric Project |
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Dependable Turbines Ltd. (DTL) welcomes all inquiries.
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