] provided a theoretical approach for determining the upper limit
for hydropower gained by a water wheel or turbine per unit width
in a rectangular open-channel. This is somewhat different of impulse and reaction turbines, as in the latter turbines, theflow in the
penstock is pressurized.
This paper aims to provide general insights on determining
optimal flows and optimal penstock diameters when designing
impulse and reaction turbines for hydropower systems. This paper
is divided as follows. First, dimensionless relationships between
power production, flow discharge and head losses are derived.
Second, these relationships are used to withdraw general insights
on determining optimal flow discharge and optimal penstock
diameter. Third, examples of application for determining optimal
flows when designing impulse and reaction turbines are presented.
Finally, the key results are summarized in the conclusion.