PeltonTurbinen

A Pelton turbine is a type of impulse water turbine invented by Lester Allan Pelton in the 1870s. It is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation in high-head, low-flow applications. The turbine operates by converting the potential energy of water into kinetic energy through nozzles, which direct high-velocity jets of water onto curved buckets mounted on the turbine wheel.

The distinctive feature of the Pelton turbine is its bucket design, which consists of two cups or bowls separated by a splitter. When the water jet strikes the buckets, it is split into two streams that flow around the inner surface of the cups before exiting at the outer edge. This design maximizes energy transfer from the water to the turbine wheel while minimizing water velocity at exit.

Pelton turbines are most efficient when installed in locations with heads ranging from 150 to 1,800 meters, making them ideal for mountainous regions with significant elevation changes. They can achieve efficiencies of over 90% under optimal conditions. The turbines are typically mounted horizontally or vertically and can be designed for single or multiple jets depending on power requirements.

These turbines are commonly used in small to medium-sized hydroelectric installations and are particularly suited for remote locations due to their simple construction and reliable operation. The mechanical simplicity of Pelton turbines results in low maintenance requirements and long operational lifespans. They are also capable of operating efficiently across a wide range of flow conditions, making them adaptable to varying water availability.

Modern Pelton turbines incorporate advanced materials and computer-optimized bucket designs to further improve efficiency and durability. They remain one of the most widely used turbine types for high-head hydroelectric applications worldwide, with installations ranging from small community power systems to large industrial facilities.