Layout Of a Hydro-Electric Power Plant

Introduction:

In this article, we will learn about Hydro-Electric Power Plant. A turbine is a hydraulic machine that converts hydraulic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is used to run a turbine fitted with an electric generator. Thus mechanical energy is converted to electric energy. Hydraulic energy is the hydro-electric power plant. It is currently cheaper compared to thermal, nuclear, and oil power plant.

The layout of a hydroelectric power plant:

The setting of the Hydro-electric power plant is shown. The following are the main parts.

1. Reservoir:

It is used to store water that rises to the top of the hill during the rainy season.

2. Dam:

It is used to store water at high pressure. Generally, it is built across the river,

3. Penstock:

A concrete or steel pipe used to carry water from the Reservoir to the turbine house.

4. Surge tank:

It is a small reservoir built near the turbine house. It is used to store excess water when the load is reduced in the turbine and to store the water stored at load.

5. Turbine:

It converts hydraulic energy into mechanical energy. It is fitted with a generator and is located in the powerhouse.

6. Generator:

It is attached to the turbine by the shaft. When the turbine rotates, the rotor in the generator rotates and generates electric power.

7. Tailrace:

It is fitted near the bottom of the turbine. The water from the turbine is transported through the draft tube to the tailrace and finally to the tailrace for other uses such as agriculture.

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