Mechanical Loading System for Tests on Cross-Flow Turbines

Abstract

Since large hydraulic turbines already have very good energy performance, nowadays the challenge is to study, improve and construct low power turbines. One important step in the design of a new type of turbine is the experimental study based on adequate equipment. In real-life applications, the turbine is loaded by the electricity consumers. Usually experiments try to reply such conditions, when it is possible and by consequence an electrical loading system seems to be adequate for tests on pico turbines. The present paper focuses on the analysis of an electrical loading system and a mechanic loading system to be used for laboratory experiments on pico turbines. The quality of experiments and the extension of graph area recommend without doubt the mechanic loading system to be used for tests on new pico hydro turbines.