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Invented in 1913 by Viktor Kaplan, this type of axial-flow reaction turbine has a runner similar to a boat propeller that is submerged in water and drives a generator. Single-regulated Kaplan use stationary stator guide vanes and orientable rotor blades, while double-regulated Kaplan involves adjustable stator guide vanes and rotor blades, with maximized hydraulic efficiency over a larger flow range. |
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Constant speed non-regulated Kaplan turbines are used when both flow and head remain practically constant. However, small scale hydro applications (5-500 kW) showed that variable speed controlled non-regulated Kaplan also maintains a good efficiency over the entire flow range, while the mechanical construction is much simpler (fixed stator guide vane and rotor blades). |
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Kaplan turbines are particularly well suited for installation in sites with large flow (up to several m3/sec.) and small head (2-25 m).
Depending on the site characteristics, several constructive variants (propeller, siphon, open flume, horizontal or vertical, etc.) of Kaplan turbines are available. |
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