25.2.2. Energy Extraction by Turbines

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the hydraulic gradient line and how does it function in open channel flow?

   Hint

   Think about how pressure is represented in open channels.

2. 2.

   Define turbine efficiency.

   Hint

   Consider how effectively a turbine operates in energy extraction.

3. 3.

   What does the hydraulic gradient line indicate in a fluid system?

   • Total energy
   • Velocity head
   • Hydraulic head

   Hint

   Relate it to where the liquid's free surface resides.

4. 4.

   True or False: Turbines convert mechanical energy into potential energy.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about what turbines do with fluid energy.

5. 5.

   A turbine is set to extract energy from a river flow rate of 20 m³/s with a pressure drop of 50 kPa across its inlet and outlet. Determine the ideal power output.

   Hint

   Remember to relate flow rate and pressure drop in power calculations.

6. 6.

   Evaluate how increasing frictional losses in a piping system will affect the efficiency of a turbine.

   Hint

   Consider the relationship between energy losses and efficiency.