Even though hydroelectric power might be one of the oldest methods of producing power, there are many disadvantages to it, from changing the water chemistry and water temperature to turbines killing and injuring fish. However, this special floating waterwheel (HEB – Hydro Electric Barrel) can generate electricity when suspended over a river or other flowing water regardless of the depth and without impacting the environment.
The unique chevron shaped paddle treads give the barrel the ability to rotate about its horizontal axis in fast flowing water, entering the water smoothly and re-surfacing without lifting water.
The merit of this design is the significant reduction of any down force (Coanda effect) and the bow wave in front of the barrel, thus increasing the efficiency of the machine. This would be an ideal product for today’s demands for cheap re-newable energy and would be a cost effective product for the pico hydroelectric or micro hydroelectric energy market.
Advantages of floating waterwheel (HEB)
- Quiet operation compared to conventional waterwheel.
- Easy to transport and install.
- Environmentally friendly due to shallow draft.
- Cost effective to manufacture, low capital outlay per kilowatt. 24/7 operation unlike solar and wind.
- Does not significantly interrupt river flow and can roll over debris.
- Adjusts to water level.
- If more power is needes, simply install another HEB generator.
- Many possible applications: remote area power supply for battery charging, lighting, irrigation, refrigeration, monitoring, etc.
- Potential for grants and feed-in tariffs.
H/T to offgridquest; hydro-electric-barrel
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1 Comment on "Floating Waterwheel That Can Generate Electricity"
Hello there, Im curious to the cost of one of your water wheels. Application is to simply power several lights. So thats cost of the wheel and generator with correct sockets for 240v Australian plugs.
Kind Regards
Joe