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Innovative Hydroelectric Concept

Author(s): A. Sepp; P. Rutschmann

Linked Author(s): Peter Rutschmann

Keywords: No Keywords

Abstract: In Germany further development of hydropower is being directed by the guidelines of the Federal Ministry for the Environment as well as the EU Water Framework Directive. As a consequence future hydroelectric projects will only be possible at existing weirs that usually have small heads of water. With these parameters it is very challenging to achieve economically viable hydropower with conventional power plants. That is why it is necessary to develop new, more efficient technologies while at the same time achieving high ecological standards. At the TU Munich development work is ongoing to develop a new inlet concept particularly suited to existing, fixed weirs. The new concept's main innovation is a change from the vertical to the horizontal inlet plane, resulting in significant economic, hydraulic, noise-emissions and aesthetic advantages. An additional and important benefit lies in the special consideration of ecological components in the flow and bed load regions. Fish-friendly flow conditions in the inlet plane can be achieved with an increase of the effective surface area of the rake without affecting the third dimension. The power plant is situated in front of and within the weir, submerged, equipped with a DIVE turbine, requires no powerhouse and requires no intervention on the banks. Furthermore it is inconspicuous and emits no noise. To prevent vortices drawing air into the vertical shaft a flap gate positioned at the face will be overflowed. This will also allow fish migrating downstream a wide corridor. So far the concept is designed theoretically and a rough hydraulic dimensioning has been done. In the course of a research project the design will be tested in a physical model equipped with turbines. In a second phase a large pilot project will be built. Applicable hydraulic and constructive assessments can be expected in the summer of 2010.

DOI:

Year: 2010

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