Installation manual

© 2014 EcoInnovation Ltd (NZ) Page 116
If you are concerned your system is not operating correctly then measure the PowerSpout
output voltage and current at the PowerSpout and compare with the data supplied with your
PowerSpout. Multiply the voltage (V) reading by the current (A) to determine the Watts your
PowerSpout is producing.
 If the Watts from your PowerSpout is within 10% of the design Watts provided for your
site then the PowerSpout is working correctly but may be in need of further optimisation.
 If the Watts are between 20% and 80% of the design Watts.
o Confirm you have sufficient water. If this is a first assessment of your PowerSpout
installation then also check the accuracy of your water resource information supplied
when you ordered your PowerSpout.
o Check your penstock for leaks, blockages, airlocks, clogged intake, jet sizes etc.
o Check your PowerSpout turbine for correct jet alignment, bearing health, correct
Pelton runner and magnetic rotor mounting and that no moving parts are rubbing and
all wires are connected internally.
 If Watts are less than 20% then do the above plus the following for your PowerSpout.
 If output voltage is 0V and current is 0A then check water flow, is the turbine
spinning and is the turbine electrically connected.
 If output voltage is 0V and current is at or above the design current then check
electrical connections for a short circuit and correct fault. If a Klampit is fitted
check this has not triggered.
 If output voltage is much higher than the battery voltage then check and correct
electrical connections to batteries, check for blown fuse (current will be near 0A).
10.1. Making the most of your pressure gauge
Your pressure gauge is essential in locating possible problems.
If the pressure is correct but your output power is low you may have a blocked jet, or an
electrical problem. If the pressure is low then there may be air in the pipe (lack of water) or a
blocked intake or leaking penstock.
It is suggested you:
o measure pressure before jet
o measure pressure at pipe manifold connection
o measure both static and dynamic pressures
o compare with calculations
10.2. Turbine case flooding
On low head hydro sites, turbines are more exposed to flooding risk. PLT turbines (up to 120
VDC) can handle submersion on rare occasions.
Immediately following a submersion of the turbine you must:
 Remove the magnetic rotor and clean off any magnetic
grit carried by the water
 Regrease the bearings and run the turbine so that
internal generator heat will dry it out.
 Clean out any excess grease from the front of the
bearing block and top-hat drain hole as this can block
with grease preventing water from draining away.
Damage caused by water submersion is not covered under warranty.