Many renewable energy solutions depend on high-speed water flow, leaving low-flow rivers, irrigation canals, and streams underutilized for power generation. Traditional Savonius hydrokinetic turbines (SAHTs) can generate energy in slow-moving water, but they suffer from low efficiency due to limited water contact on the blades and negative pressure effects that reduce performance.
Core Features of the Invention
This invention introduces a triple-bladed, dual-stage Savonius-alike hydrokinetic turbine system designed for low-flow water streams. The key features include:
- Three-blade system for better efficiency.
- Dual-stage design with a small gap between stages, allowing additional water pressure to enhance performance.
- End plates and blade overlapping to optimize water flow and improve energy conversion.
- Adjustable brake loads to regulate the turbine’s power output.
- Adaptability to flow speeds as low as 0.45 m/s, making it ideal for irrigation channels, small rivers, and tidal streams.
What Makes It Unique?
Unlike previous designs that only use end plates or multi-staging separately, this turbine combines multiple efficiency-enhancing techniques:
1. Overlapping blades to capture more water.
2. A stage gap that allows vertical water thrust to boost energy extraction.
3.
Optimized tip speed ratio (TSR) for maximum power output at low flow speeds.
This combination increases efficiency while maintaining a simple, cost-effective design.
Key Benefits
- Generates power even in low-flow water sources.
- Provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
- Operates efficiently in rural and off-grid areas.
- Can be used in existing irrigation and water channels with minimal infrastructure changes.
Broader Impact
This technology makes renewable energy more accessible, helping small communities, businesses, and agricultural areas harness clean energy from underutilized water sources. It supports global efforts in sustainability, energy independence, and green technology adoption.