How It Works
How it works
The Basics
There are two basic models which fit two different needs. The stream engine is designed to take advantage of sites with higher head while the LH1000 is designed for sites with low head and high flow. Both models are designed for battery-based power systems, with electricity generated at a steady rate and stored in batteries for later use. When AC power is desired an inverter is used to convert the stored energy. In grid tie applications, the machines are usually used to generate high voltage DC that is compatible with grid tie inverters. Our machines can also feed the utility grid.
Our machines are designed to make use of a natural source of running water. Water from the stream is channelled into a pipeline to gain enough head (vertical drop the water falls) to power the system. The water passes through a nozzle, where it accelerates, strikes the turbine wheel and turns the generator shaft. The amount of power produced will depend on the head and flow from the water source.
A simplified explanation of the basics behind micro hydro machines can be downloaded here.
Energy Systems & Design
Key Terms
Technical jargon broken down to help you understand how it all works.
Head
Total Vertical drop of the water source from intake to turbine.
High Head
The vertical drop of the water source is greater than 3 meters or 10 feet
Low Head
The vertical drop of the water source is between 1 meter or 3 feet and 3 meters or 10 feet
Head Water
The Head Water is the source of the stream leading to the generator.
Tail Water
The tail water is the water that leaves the generator and is returned to the stream
High Head (The Stream Engine)
Low Head (LH1000)
Energy Systems & Design
Let's get started
In order to get started, you will need to determine if your site meets the requirements for generating microhydro power. To do this you will need to measure the head and flow of your water source. Click the link to view a helpful guide on determining these measurements. Once you have measured your head and flow, refer back to the website to find out which product fits your needs.
Our Products
Our Engines
X-Stream Engine
One X-Stream can generate the power of two standard machines.
LH1000 Low Head Engine
The LH1000 is specifically designed machine to operate efficiently in low-head sites. It takes advantage of the same generator as the Stream Engine, however the water turbine component uses a low head propeller design.
Watter Buddy
This little machine generates DC power from a source such as a stream running down a hillside. Water is channelled into a pipeline with enough drop (head) to build up sufficient pressure.
1K Micro Hydro Power System
The 1K Micro Hydro Power System is one of Energy System and Design’s answers to a version of our Stream Engine that can provide reliable power for your needs at an affordable price point.