Profil Title	Energy Recovery from small hydraulic sources using pumps as turbines
Reference Nr.	09 IT 53U6 3D93
Country of origin	Italy
Profil Type	Offer
Entry/Update	2009-04-16 / 2010-07-07

Abstract	A research group of a Southern Italy University has developed a new system for recovering energy from small hydraulic sources using pumps as turbines in order to contribute to promote renewable energy. The group is looking for partners for technical cooperation, commercial agreement with technical assistance.
Details	A research group of a Southern Italy University has developed a new system that allows small hydraulic pumps to work as turbines in order to recover energy. In the discussion of the energy situation in developing countries and especially in rural areas, it is generally recognised that small hydropower may play a significant role. However, high initial investment costs of small hydropower plants have restricted rapid development of this energy potential in many countries. The use of standard pumps as turbines (PAT) may often be an alternative with a considerable economic advantage and might therefore contribute to a broader application of micro-hydropower. Pumps operate in turbine mode by changing direction of flow and hence the direction of rotation of the impeller. The flow pattern through the machine is similar to the flow conditions in a turbine. Thus, the advantageous features of turbines (i.e. accelerated flow and operating conditions which are less subjected to cavitations) also occur. The group has long term experience in developing solutions to chose the specific turbine for different types of sites. It should also supports users/companies in improve their capacity to choice the best solution. Innovative Aspects: The possibility to recover energy from small hydraulic sources can represent an important contribute to promote renewable energy. Usually, hydraulic energy plants working in small scale have specific problems that interfere with their development. For this reason, the turbines are “high-cost” products and need constant maintenance services. The new solution overtakes these problems using pumps as turbines. Pumps are mass-produced and have the following innovative aspects compared with turbines: • Integral pump and motor can be used as a turbine and generator set; • Available for a range of heads and flows: • Available in a number of standard sizes; • Short delivery time; • Spare parts such as seals and bearings are easily available; • Easy installation.
Technology sector	- Turbines, fluid machinery, combined heat and power - Renewable Sources of Energy - Wind energy - Rational use of energy - Energy management
Market application	- Wind energy
Stage of development	Available for demonstration - field tested
Patent Rights (IPR)	Secret know-how
Cooperation type	- Joint further development - Testing of new applications - Adaptation to specific needs - Technical consultancy # Type of partner sought Industry # Specific area of activity of the partner Partners operating in the field of energy management, alternative energy sources. # Task to be performed Industrial partners interested in further developments and commercial applications.
Organisation type	Org. Size:
Status	update