Water operated power unit - has turbine runner floating on and centred by driving water above tailrace

摘要

The water-operated power unit produces energy from the difference in levels of water in tow basins, e.g. along river banks or on the coast, and comprises a water turbine, to which a generator or pump is coupled. The turbine rotor floats on the water, thus avoiding the need for supporting it on a foundation with bearings. When running, centring of the rotor above the tailrace in the base of the stator is largely effected by the water flow, and rotor and driving water rotate about a vertical axis. The stator can be open at the top.