The maximum theoretical efficiency of the Pelton wheel is obtained w...
The efficiency is maximum when the ratio of bucket speed to jet-speed is 0.5. Out of the given option, 0.46 is the most suitable one and near to maximum. The value of the speed ratio varies from 0.43 to 0.48.
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The maximum theoretical efficiency of the Pelton wheel is obtained w...
Maximizing Efficiency of Pelton Wheel
Introduction:
Pelton wheel is a hydraulic turbine that is used to generate electricity from the kinetic energy of water. It is named after its inventor, Lester Allan Pelton. The efficiency of the Pelton wheel depends on various factors, such as the speed of the bucket and the speed of the jet.
Efficiency of Pelton Wheel:
The efficiency of the Pelton wheel is defined as the ratio of the work output to the energy input. It can be expressed mathematically as:
Efficiency = (Work Output / Energy Input) x 100
The maximum theoretical efficiency of the Pelton wheel is obtained when the speed of the bucket is half the speed of the jet. This is because, at this point, the water jet impinges on the bucket at an optimum angle of 90 degrees, which results in maximum energy transfer from the water to the bucket.
Calculation of Ratio:
Let the speed of the bucket be Vb, and the speed of the jet be Vj. Then, the ratio of bucket speed to jet speed can be expressed as:
Vb / Vj = 0.5
Multiplying both sides by Vj, we get:
Vb = 0.5 x Vj
Therefore, the ratio of bucket speed to jet speed is 0.5.
Answer:
Option C, i.e., 0.46, is the closest to the theoretical value of 0.5, and hence, it is the correct answer.