Power Formula:
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The Input Power to Turbine formula calculates the power input to a turbine based on fluid density, gravitational acceleration, discharge rate, and head. This fundamental equation helps determine the energy available for conversion in hydraulic turbines.
The calculator uses the power formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical power available from a fluid flow by considering the mass flow rate and the energy head available.
Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for turbine design, efficiency analysis, energy production estimation, and proper sizing of hydraulic systems in power generation applications.
Tips: Enter density in kg/m³ (water ≈ 997 kg/m³), gravitational acceleration in m/s² (standard ≈ 9.8 m/s²), discharge in m³/s, and head in meters. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the typical density value for water?
A: The density of water is approximately 997 kg/m³ at room temperature (25°C), but it varies slightly with temperature.
Q2: How does head affect power output?
A: Power output is directly proportional to head - doubling the head will double the power output, assuming other factors remain constant.
Q3: What is the difference between input power and output power?
A: Input power is the theoretical power available from the fluid, while output power is the actual power delivered by the turbine after accounting for efficiency losses.
Q4: Can this formula be used for all types of turbines?
A: This formula provides the theoretical power input. Different turbine types (Pelton, Francis, Kaplan) have different efficiency characteristics that affect actual output power.
Q5: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Temperature affects fluid density. For precise calculations, use density values corresponding to the actual fluid temperature.