Micro Hydro Startup 2023

Summary

In this video, Seth takes viewers on a journey to restart his Micro Hydro System after a six-month hiatus. He discusses the system's functionality, including the importance of managing water flow and addressing potential issues like silt and debris. The setup features a Kwanda screen for self-cleaning and a pressure gauge to monitor performance. After clearing blockages, he demonstrates the system's ability to generate power, reaching up to 100 watts, and shares insights on his off-grid power setup. Seth encourages viewers to explore Micro Hydro systems and provides tips based on his experiences.

Takeaways

• 🚰 The Micro Hydro System typically generates between 100 to 500 watts, depending on the water flow available.
• 🛠️ The speaker hadn't serviced the system in six months, making it necessary to inspect the water source and intake system.
• 🌊 The water pressure in the system was around 62 PSI, with a flow rate between 15 to 30 gallons per minute.
• 🔧 The speaker uses a 55-gallon barrel to separate silt and air bubbles from the water before it reaches the turbine.
• 📏 Adjustments were needed to the poly pipe to ensure it fit correctly with the barrel, preventing pressure loss.
• 🪣 The Kawanda screen intake is highlighted as an efficient self-cleaning option, minimizing maintenance.
• ⚙️ The turbine's PMA (Permanent Magnet Alternator) required reconnecting an exit pipe to return water to the creek.
• 🔋 The speaker utilizes various battery systems, including AGM and lithium iron phosphate, to store energy.
• 💡 The system is capable of generating up to 500 watts under optimal conditions with sufficient water flow.
• 🔌 The speaker plans to connect grid-tied inverters to supplement power for heavy appliances like dryers and air conditioners.

Q & A

What is the typical power output range of Seth's Micro Hydro System?

Seth's Micro Hydro System typically runs between 100 and 500 watts, depending on the amount of water available.

What are the two main purposes of the 55-gallon barrel in the hydro system?

The barrel serves to separate silt from the water to prevent it from reaching the turbine blades and to separate air bubbles from the water to ensure smooth flow through the pin stock.

What is a Kwanda screen and why is it important for the system?

The Kwanda screen is a self-cleaning intake box that helps pull water into the system while preventing debris from entering. It is important because it can handle a large amount of water and keeps the intake clear of blockages.

What modifications does Seth plan to make to the system's exit pipe?

Seth needs to reconnect the exit pipe that takes water back to the creek and ensure that the ball valve is properly secured.

How does Seth plan to manage potential blockages in the nozzles?

Seth plans to clean out the nozzles if blockages occur, which he suspects may be caused by snail shells or other debris.

What type of batteries does Seth use in his hydro system, and what are their characteristics?

Seth uses AGM batteries and has recently added a lithium iron phosphate battery to keep it warm, which is more efficient for energy storage.

What is the purpose of the charge controllers in Seth's hydro system?

The charge controllers manage the input from both solar and hydro sources to charge the batteries and regulate the power output to the inverters.

What challenges does Seth face with the ball valves in his system?

Seth mentions that the ball valves are problematic, noting that a stainless steel valve he used froze and broke, causing issues in the system.

What is the significance of having multiple nozzles in the system?

Multiple nozzles allow for better water management and distribution; however, Seth may start by using only the main nozzle if the water flow is insufficient.

What advice does Seth give to others interested in installing a Micro Hydro System?

Seth recommends using a Kwanda box for the intake and Fern Co fittings to secure the pipes, as they help prevent disconnections that can lead to system failures.