Home Back

Power Obtained From Water Flow In Horsepower Calculator

Hydroelectric Power Formula:

\[ P = \frac{\eta \times Q_t \times H \times \gamma_w}{550} \]

%
m³/s
m
kN/m³

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Hydroelectric Power?

Hydroelectric Power is electricity generated by the flow of water through turbines, harnessing the energy of falling or flowing water. It is a renewable energy source that converts the potential energy of water into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the hydroelectric power formula:

\[ P = \frac{\eta \times Q_t \times H \times \gamma_w}{550} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula calculates the power output in horsepower by considering the turbine efficiency, water flow rate, effective head, and the unit weight of water.

3. Importance of Hydroelectric Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for designing hydroelectric plants, optimizing energy production, and assessing the economic viability of hydroelectric projects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter efficiency as a percentage (0-100%), discharge in cubic meters per second, effective head in meters, and unit weight of water in kN/m³. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical efficiency range for hydroelectric turbines?
A: Modern hydroelectric turbines typically have efficiencies between 85-95%, depending on the type and design of the turbine.

Q2: Why is the constant 550 used in the formula?
A: The constant 550 is used to convert the result to horsepower, where 1 horsepower equals 550 foot-pounds per second.

Q3: What factors affect the effective head in a hydroelectric system?
A: Effective head is influenced by the vertical drop, pipe friction losses, and other hydraulic losses in the system.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for different units?
A: This calculator uses specific units (m³/s for discharge, m for head, kN/m³ for unit weight). For other units, appropriate conversions must be applied first.

Q5: What is the typical unit weight of water?
A: The unit weight of water is approximately 9.81 kN/m³ (or 62.4 lb/ft³ in imperial units) at standard conditions.

Power Obtained From Water Flow In Horsepower Calculator© - All Rights Reserved 2025