Micro Turbine Works In Small Streams

Micro Turbine Works In Small Streams MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous 33-3-40 Even small streams can generate a lot of electricity with a micro hydro Pelton turbine. The mini turbines have rapidly gained a following in New Zealand and other countries and are now available in North America. "Initially, our turbines are selling for $1,000 delivered in North America," says developer Michael Lawley. The design concentrates small flows under high pressure through jets inside a sealed box. A flywheel inside the box catches the full force of two water jets, one striking it high from one side and one striking it low on the other side. The flywheel shaft is directly connected to a Smart Drive generator. The generator windings cannot be burned out, and the brushless design can be easily converted for different voltages. It uses a large stainless steel shaft for easy mounting and resists corrosion. Even a small amount of water with sufficient variation in height from source to turbine over a limited distance can produce a significant amount of electricity with the Pelton turbine. "Tests indicate these units can achieve efficiency as high as 60 percent," says Lawley. He explains that just two to three liters of water per second falling 90 to 130 meters can produce as much as 1800 watts. The EcoInnovation website provides information on recycling motors for use as generators and offers a wide variety of components and smaller turbine systems. It also offers solar and other alternative energy systems and parts. "We're starting off with a single turbine in the North American market," say Lawley. "We currently sell systems and components throughout the world." Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, EcoInnovation, 671 Kent Road, R.D.1, New Plymouth, New Zealand (ph (NZ) 06 752 2765; fax (NZ) 06 752 2768; enquiry@eco innovation.co.nz; www.ecoinnovation.co. nz).

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