ENGINEERING – PUMP & TURBINE CALCULATOR
Pump As Turbine
A precise tool.
What is the Pump As Turbine & How does it work?
A pump can operate in reverse as a turbine, extracting hydraulic energy from a flowing fluid. When used as a pumpβasβturbine (PAT), the device follows the same hydraulic relationships but the mechanical power is recovered instead of supplied.
The key performance parameters are the equivalent head that the turbine can develop and the flow rate that passes through it. Both are governed by the pumpβs original design head, flow, and its efficiency in turbine mode.
By applying the PAT equations, engineers can quickly estimate the recoverable power and decide whether a given pump is suitable for turbine applications.
H_{eq}=\eta\,H\quad\text{and}\quad Q_{eq}=Q
H_{eq} = equivalent turbine head (m)
Q_{eq} = equivalent turbine flow (mΒ³/s)
Q_{eq} = equivalent turbine flow (mΒ³/s)
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pump-as-turbine?
A pump-as-turbine (PAT) is a device that can operate in reverse to extract hydraulic energy from flowing fluid, converting it into mechanical power.
How do you calculate the equivalent head of a PAT?
The equivalent head is calculated using the original design head and efficiency of the pump when operating as a turbine.
What factors affect the flow rate in a PAT system?
The flow rate in a PAT system is influenced by the pump’s original flow, its efficiency in turbine mode, and the hydraulic resistance of the system.
Can any pump be used as a turbine?
Not all pumps can be effectively used as turbines. The design and efficiency of the pump must allow for reverse operation to recover mechanical power.
What are the benefits of using a pump-as-turbine?
Using a pump-as-turbine can help recover energy from flowing fluids, improving overall system efficiency and reducing operational costs.
How do you determine the mechanical power output of a PAT?
The mechanical power output is determined by multiplying the flow rate by the equivalent head and the fluid’s specific weight.
What are some common applications for pump-as-turbine technology?
Pump-as-turbine technology is commonly used in water treatment plants, hydroelectric power generation, and industrial processes where energy recovery from flowing fluids is beneficial.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.