DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN EXPERIMENTAL TEST RIG FOR PELTON TURBINE PERFORMANCE STUDY

Abstract

This study aims to design and implement a laboratory-scale experimental test rig to evaluate the performance of a Pelton turbine. The Pelton turbine is a type of impulse turbine ideal for hydroelectric power plants (HEPP) operating under high head and low flow conditions. In engineering education, the lack of practical facilities often hinders students from gaining a direct understanding of turbine working principles. Therefore, this test rig is designed to provide an experimental platform that allows students to observe the effects of varying water flow rates and pressures on the turbine's power output and efficiency. The research process includes mechanical system design, material selection, integration of measurement instruments (flowmeter, manometer, tachometer), and performance testing. Experimental results are analyzed based on hydraulic power, mechanical power, and energy conversion efficiency. This test rig is expected to serve as an effective educational tool that enhances student understanding of water energy conversion systems and improves the quality of hands-on learning in mechanical engineering.