The hydroelectric wheel produces hydroelectric power from flowing watercourses. It is designed to transform the kinetic energy of water into electrical energy which can be introduced directly into the grid.
There may be one or two generators depending on the hydraulic power available.
The hydroelectric wheel is secured with special attachments to the existing channel. The flow may be re-channelled through an artificial channel located inside the existing channel depending on the hydraulic conditions.
The wheel can operate completely in automatic mode and has a raising system which raises the wheel leaving the watercourse free in the event of river flooding. This system also levels the blades automatically in the water flow and can be adjusted to optimise power production.
A PLC system controls the operating and safety parameters of the wheel using thermal and sonar sensors to detect the height of the water and noise and position sensors for the wheel.
The system's automation software provided enables constant monitoring of the operation, power production and operating parameter settings.
Plant Installed
- CALUSO (TO): Consorzio Canali Canavese
First project phase installation of 7 hydraulic wheels (power 132 Kw).
The complete plant will consist of about 80 wheels distributed at various points along the entire 33 km length of the canal.
Click here to see the installations.
- MARANO SUL PANARO (MO)
Installation of a 4 Kw plant.
This low power installation was designed to exploit low flow rate watercourses.
