Tubular turbines, also known as horizontal-axis turbines, are a type of water turbine where the water flows mainly along the horizontal axial direction within the flow passage without turning. This axial flow characteristic allows for a larger runner diameter and improves both the turbine’s water flow capacity and hydraulic efficiency. The key characteristics of tubular turbines are the following:
Tubular turbines are perfectly applied in tidal power stations, where their unique ability to operate in both flow directions makes them suitable for the comprehensive utilization of low-head hydraulic resources.
Due to their high efficiency, low investment costs, rapid development, and increasing power output, tubular turbines are favored for hydropower generation.
Scope of supply: 3 axial-flow turbine-generator units
Basic parameters:Was successfully installed and commissioned in May 2013
Supply scope: 2 sets of axial-flow turbine-generator units
Basic parameters:Was successfully exported to Pakistan in August 2023
Supply scope: 3 sets of axial-flow turbine-generator units
Basic parameters:Was successfully installed and commissioned in March 2013
Supply scope: 2 sets of axial-flow turbine-generator units
Basic parameters:Was successfully exported to South Africa in September 2021
Supply scope: 4 sets of axial-flow turbine-generator units
Basic parameters:Was successfully installed and commissioned in July 2018
The tubular turbine is a type of axial-flow turbine specifically developed for low-head hydropower applications. It is typically arranged with a horizontal shaft and does not use a spiral casing. Instead, water is directly conveyed to the turbine runner through a penstock. The flowing water drives the blades connected to the generator shaft. Thanks to the continuous flow of water, the blades keep turning, causing the generator to rotate. This process converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy.
Tubular turbines are well suited for very low head and very high flow rates, offering large flow capacity, high specific efficiency, and the advantage of requiring no excavation.
Structurally, tubular turbines can be classified into:
Tubular turbines are generally suitable for rivers with high flow rate, low heads ranging from 4 to 25 meters. Additionally, tubular turbines offer construction advantages such as simplified installation, reduced concrete use, and faster assembly.
The tubular turbine casing is fabricated from conventional steel, while the blades are made of stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance and a service life of over 30 years. The generator housing is made of steel and contains coils and magnetic poles internally.
Tubular turbines are the optimal choice for developing low-head, high-flow tidal and hydraulic energy. It features large flow capacity, high efficiency, and minimal excavation requirements.
After placing an order for our turbine units, we will provide you with a complete set of installation drawings. If needed, we will also assist and guide you through the installation process.
Our expert team will support your hydropower projects with proven experience and technical expertise.
We develop, design and deliver turnkey hydroelectric power plant solutions with the right water turbine for hydroelectric generation
Learn More21+ years of experience
Power range: 50kW-30MW
Annual output: 150 units of 5,000 kW turbine generator sets
Annual output: 100 units of 200 kW turbine generator sets
