Manual 1
     The LH 1000 Low Head Propeller Turbine Personal Hydropower Owner's Manual

 

 



Table of Contents

Introduction

Site Evaluation

Head Measurement

Flow Measurement

Intake, Pipeline & Tailrace

Batteries, Inverters & Controllers

Wiring & Load Center

Output Adjustment

Disassembly & Service

Wiring Diagrams

Current Measurement Technique

 

 

INTAKE, PIPELINE, AND TAILRACE 

All hydro systems require a waterway. Even systems operating directly from a dam require at least a short plumbing run. It is important to use the correct type and size of plumbing to minimize restrictions in the flow. When possible, pipelines should be buried; this stabilizes the line and prevents animals from chewing it.

At the inlet of the plumbing, a filter should be installed. A screened box can be used with the pipe entering one side, or add a section of pipe drilled full of holes wrapped with screen or small holes and used without screen. A mesh size of about 20mm (3/4") and smaller can be used as debris of this size and will pass through the machine. However, it is important to keep sticks out of the intake as they may become jammed in the machine. This may require a smaller mesh size. 

A settling basin should be used with this machine. This is a pool of low velocity water that enables the grit to settle so that it will not enter the machine and wear the edge of the propeller and the guide vane housing.

FIND DIAGRAM FOR LOW HEAD INSTALLATION

The turbine can be mounted in the waterway, through a 17-cm (7") hole, with the draft tube extending to the tail waters below. Small tabs with screws are adequate to retain the machine. The draft tube is connected to the machine using rubber sleeves and hose clamps. These are standard plumbing items. PVC pipe of 150mm (6") diameter with a 4mm (0.160") wall thickness is used between the guide vane assembly and the draft tube. Install the rubber sleeve at the lower end of the guide vane tube so as to create a smooth transition from one to the other. It is recommended to have the LH1000 in a small enclosure or under some cover to keep it dry and provide a place for auxiliary equipment. Mounting the machine in concrete is also possible (you may wish to try a temporary wood mounting first).