What is the Pelton wheel, and how does it work? What are the working prop velocity diagram, work done, and efficiency of the Pelton wheel?
The Pelton wheel is a type of water turbine used for the extraction of hydroelectric power. It was invented by Lester Allan Pelton in the 1870s. The Pelton wheel is designed to convert the energy of flowing water into mechanical energy that can be used to drive a generator for the production of electricity.
The working principle of the Pelton wheel is based on the impulse of water hitting the buckets or blades of the wheel. The water flows through a nozzle and is directed onto the curved buckets of the wheel. The high velocity of the water jet causes the wheel to rotate, transferring energy to the shaft connected to a generator.
The working prop velocity diagram of the Pelton wheel shows the relationship between the incoming water jet velocity, the tangential velocity of the wheel, and the discharge velocity after water hits the buckets. This diagram helps in understanding the operation and efficiency of the Pelton wheel.
The work done by the Pelton wheel can be calculated by the formula:
Work = Force x distance
The efficiency of a Pelton wheel can be calculated as:
Efficiency = (Net work output / Total energy input) x 100%
The efficiency of the Pelton wheel is typically around 90-95%, making it one of the most efficient types of water turbines for hydroelectric power generation.