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International Journal of Electrical and Power Engineering

Design and Construction of a 5 kW Turbine for a Proposed Micro Hydroelectric Power Plant Installation at Awba Dam University of Ibadan
T. Ajuwape and O.S. Ismail

Abstract: The designand construction of a 5 kW turbine for a proposed micro hydroelectric power plant installation at Awba Dam University of Ibadan was undertaken. Dam outflow rate and the average head of outflow were determined using a topographical survey of the dam and pertinent calculations. For selection of a suitable turbine from available options (Francis, Kaplan and Pelton), a selection matrix was used with compliance with turbine selection chart, affordability, ease of local constructionand long term cost effectiveness and suitability for expected working-speed range as the selection criteria. The various designed parts were constructed and assembled locally and the turbine was tested using both an elevated tap (a height of 4 m and a flow rate of about 0.00051 m3 sec-1) and a water tanker at a flow rate of about 0.00214 m3 sec-1. Results showed that Francis turbine was most suitable. Turbine inlet tip angle of 59°, turbine outlet tip angle of 47°, turbine runner outer diameter of 22 cm and inner diameter of 11 cm and a wicket angle of 22° were obtained. These values were used for constructing the turbine. Tests performed using the tap showed that the turbine worked at an average rotational speed of 110 rev min-1 while it worked at an average speed of 300 rev min-1 when it was tested using the water tanker. This showed that the turbine speed increased with increased water flow rate. A 5 kW Francis turbine for micro hydro installation at Awba dam has been designed and constructed. The turbine worked smoothly.

How to cite this article
T. Ajuwape and O.S. Ismail, 2011. Design and Construction of a 5 kW Turbine for a Proposed Micro Hydroelectric Power Plant Installation at Awba Dam University of Ibadan. International Journal of Electrical and Power Engineering, 5: 131-138.

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