Advanced Optimization Procedure for the Design of Small Hydro Turbines.
Assessment and Validation through Web Testing.

Duration: 2008 – 2011 ● Client: European Commission (FP7) ● WIP Role: Research and Innovation, Communication and Dissemination ● www.hydroaction.org

Small scale hydro plants are characterised by relatively low efficiencies. This doesn’t result from the limitations imposed by the theoretical background of hydrodynamics but is largely due to the fact that the design is not based on a design-optimization procedure.

In principle, designers of small hydro projects refrain from using optimization techniques for the turbines, since a precise design is a costly and time consuming task and consequently could not be afforded by the majority of small size turbines manufacturers, in view of the small hydro projects budgets.

HYDROACTION will develop a methodology for the design-optimization of small hydro turbines. The procedure will be oriented towards small action type turbines, as well as of the reaction type Matrix turbine.