Parts of a Hydroelectric Power Plant

Imagine being able to harness the power of water to generate electricity -- in some places, we do. Hydroelectric power plants do just this, offering a good alternative energy resource. There are crucial parts to a properly constructed hydroelectric power plant, each part with a specific function, working together like pieces in a puzzle, ensuring the final product runs perfectly.

Dam and Water Reservoir

• One of the main parts of the system is the dam. The dam raises the level of the water in a river, allowing a greater mechanical energy created by its falling motion. The dam also serves to regulate the flow of water into the other parts of the system. The reservoir, on the other hand, pertains to the part behind the dam that contains the stored water, storing potential energy. Water from this part will then flow into the intake and penstock.

Intake and Penstock

• The intake refers to the part of the dam where water enters the system from the reservoir. Inlet valves and gates regulate the amount of water entering. The penstock, a long shaft-like passageway, receives the flowing water through its tunnel where it turns into usable kinetic energy. This flowing water is then subsequently carried toward the turbines.

Turbine and Power Generator

• The turbines are the part of the power plant where the flowing water's kinetic energy is transformed into mechanical energy. The force of the water turns the turbine's blades, rotating them. This rotational kinetic energy powers the generators. The four main parts of the generator, namely, the excitor, shaft, rotor and stator, work together to convert the rotational energy into electrical energy that can be readily used by cities and towns.

Electrical System

• The electrical system consists of transmission and energy lines. These lines serve as the conductor of electricity produced by the plant into areas where it is needed, such as business establishments and homes. The water that was used to produce energy now goes out of the system and back into the river through the outflow area. It still contains potential or kinetic energy and can later be used in a repeat fashion.