Author(s): Kevin Rieger; Julius Maier; Alexander Graf; Lutz Scheithauer; Stefan Polster; Wolfgang Foerster; Nicole Saenger; Verena Krausel; Daniela Nickel
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: Hydropower is an increasingly important renewable energy source. While large powerplants have largely reached their potential, small hydropower installations on flowing waters with low heads still offer significant development opportunities (Quaranta, 2018). This research project aims to enhance the power output of these decentralized energy converters, focusing on the influence of blade geometry, material selection, and surface structure on breastshot to undershot water wheel performance. Optimized blades are developed using lightweight design concepts, stainless steel, and innovative manufacturing processes instead of using wooden blades. The results are relevant for small and medium-sized enterprises in the hydropower sector and support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 7: access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all
Year: 2026