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- Gilkes - Pelton Impulse Turbine
Gilkes - Pelton Impulse Turbine
The Pelton impulse turbine is suited to sites with high head and low flow. It operates by directing high-velocity water jets onto the runner, converting water energy into rotational force. Available in single or multi-jet configurations, with horizontal or vertical arrangements, the Pelton is designed to deliver high energy transfer and efficient performance.
Design and performance
The Pelton turbine maintains high efficiency across a wide range of flows. When multiple jets are used, this range is further extended, optimising annual energy production. Each Gilkes Pelton turbine is selected and configured based on site-specific conditions to maximise power generation and system performance.
Streamline range – Pelton turbines
For smaller hydropower applications, Gilkes has developed the Streamline range, designed specifically for sub-1MW projects. These turbines are built for simplicity, durability, and ease of installation. The design simplifies the civil engineering requirements typically associated with hydro schemes, making deployment more cost-effective and improving serviceability.
Development and engineering enhancements
Gilkes continues to refine Pelton turbine technology, incorporating modern materials and control systems to enhance performance and longevity. Advances in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling and precision manufacturing ensure each turbine is optimised for its specific site conditions.
The Pelton impulse turbine remains a key solution for high-head hydropower projects, delivering consistent performance, efficiency, and reliability.
- High efficiency at varying flow conditions ensures stable power generation
- Low wear and maintenance reducing long-term operational costs
- Runners fully machined from single forged block for durability
- Being an impulse turbine, easy to govern for islanded operation
- Limits over-pressure effect over the penstock
- Rural electrification
- Run-of-river hydropower
- Energy recovery in water systems
- Industrial and municipal power generation projects
- Power output: up to 20MW
- Head range: 100-1000m
- Configuration: horizontal – single and twin jets
vertical – up to 6 Jets - Over 1000 installations worldwide
- Installations in 57 countries