Electrical Power Systems Technology

Electrical Power Production Systems 101

veloped in the early twentieth century.

The energy of flowing water may be used to generate electrical power.

This method of power production is used in hydroelectric power systems, as

shown by the simple system illustrated in the diagram in Figure 4-12. Water,

which is confined in a large reservoir, is channeled through a control gate,

which adjusts the flow rate. The flowing water passes through the blades

and control vanes of a hydraulic turbine, which produces rotation. This me-

chanical energy is used to rotate a generator that is connected directly to

the turbine shaft. Rotation of the alternator causes electrical power to be

produced. However, hydroelectric systems are limited by the availability of

large water supplies. Many hydroelectric systems are part of multipurpose

facilities. For instance, a hydroelectric power system may be part of a proj-

ect planned for flood control, recreation, or irrigation. Some hydroelectric

power systems are shown in Figures 4-12 through 4-14.

Hydroelectric System Operation

The turbines used as the mechanical energy sources of hydroelec-

tric systems are very efficient machines. They are ordinarily connected

Figure 4-12. Drawing of a basic hydroelectric power system