Hence the main objective of this thesis is to get the idea if it is possible to use a motor-pump as a generating mechanism for electricity. In doing so, the operational characteristics of the pump in the turbine mode, ie, Pump-as-Turbine (PAT) has to be known. But the PAT mode characteristic is not easy to obtain as the pump manufacturers do not provide them. They only give the pump mode characteristics. So, the PAT characteristic is obtained following the procedures of two scientific researchers Sharma and Chapallaz et al. Hypothetical site curves are also drawn and the operating point of the PAT is obtained from where the output power can be found. The value of the magnetizing capacitance is also found. 1.3 Advantages and disadvantages of motor-pump 1.3.1 Advantages A motor-pump has the following advantages: •
Availability Due to its wide spread application, a motor-pump is readily available anywhere in the market. If spare parts are needed, incase, they are equally found in the market as the motor-pump manufacturers often provide after-sales services almost throughout the world.
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Economic Advantage The total cost of a motor-pump is very less compared to that of buying separate synchronous generator and turbine. A pump may cost as much as 50% less than that of a turbine.
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Construction Standard motor-pumps are very simple and robust in construction. They do not require any highly qualified mechanics for maintenance. The rotors have no windings, diodes or slip rings. They are also designed for continuous operation.
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Environment Friendly