A conventional hydroelectric plant taps into the energy of flowing water, employing straightforward mechanisms to convert it into electricity. Turbines, driven by water descending from an elevated reservoir, generate power. The cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness of hydroelectricity stem from its use of water as an abundant fuel source. Nevertheless, the output is constrained by the volume of water stored in the dam. Over time, the rising population and growing industrial demands made depending solely on water power inadequate to meet the escalating electricity requirements.
How do Conventional Hydro Plants Work?
The process involves the operational mechanics of conventional hydro plants, including key elements such as the reservoir, penstock, turbine, and water return via the draft tube and tailrace. The following is the working of conventional hydro plants:
1. Reservoir Operation: The first step is to hold water in a reservoir or lake behind a dam.
2. Water Conduction through Penstock: Water is guided through penstocks into a chamber containing the turbine. The water is elevated above the turbine, allowing it to descend with enough force to strike the turbine blades and cause rotation.
3. Turbine Functionality: The turbine wheel, linked to a generator through a shaft, plays a pivotal role. As the turbine rotates, a system of magnets and wires within the generator also rotates, resulting in the generation of electricity.
4. Draft Tube and Tailrace: After passing through the turbine, the water returns to the river by passing through a draft tube located beneath the turbine and flowing into the tailrace.
Also Read: What are Variable-Speed Wind Turbines?
What are the Pros and Cons of Conventional Hydroelectric Plant?
Advantages of Conventional hydroelectric plant
1. Low cost: Due to the free and renewable nature of water as a fuel source, hydroelectricity is less expensive than coal-fired and nuclear power.
2. Renewable Resource: Water is a renewable resource, as opposed to non-renewable sources like coal and uranium.
3. Emission-Free Production: Because hydropower does not use combustion, it produces electricity with no harmful emissions.
4. Energy Storage: Potential energy in water can be stored and quickly converted to kinetic energy when used to generate electricity.
5. Quick Start-Up: Because hydroelectric plants start up quickly, they are ideal for providing the highest power during peak demand periods.
6. Recreational Opportunities: Lakes formed by hydroelectric plants provide opportunities for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
7. Wildlife Habitat: Hydroelectric projects help to preserve wildlife habitats while also providing water to local communities.
Disadvantages of Conventional hydroelectric plant
1. Dam Construction: Hydroelectric power necessitates the construction of dams, which results in the flooding of vast areas of land and the destruction of wildlife habitats.
2. Expensive Initial Construction: While operating costs are low, initial construction costs for hydroelectric plants, particularly large dams, are exorbitant.
3. Limited Development Sites: Many suitable sites for hydroelectric generation have already been developed, making it less appealing for new projects.
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