Design and fabrication of the hydroelectricity generator

Hydroelectricity refers to electricity generated by harnessing the power of water in motion, typically through the gravitational force or falling or flowing of water. It is the most used renewable energy source, contributing 16 percent of the world’s electricity, amounting to 3,427 terawatt hours in 2010. [1] Despite its significant advantages, hydropower faces several problems, especially in the education department. To begin with, locations for hydropower plants are scarce in Malaysia and only available at locations where water is abundant not only making it difficult for students to get a close-up look at the workings of hydropower. (but also due to the safety issues of these sites making them less than ideal) Secondly, it is also worth noting that the size of hydropower generators is typically very large and unsuitable for classroom use. Thirdly, the cost of one of these hydropower generators is very expensive which makes them less appealing to educators and students alike. The project serves to satisfy a few objectives like designing a turbine using software like Solidworks, fabrication of a small-scale hydroelectric generator as a proof of concept, and analysing the difference in electricity generation based on different flow rates. This project will simulate the basic workings of a hydroelectricity generator by having water flow through a turbine which will then create torque on the shaft and the torque will in turn generate electricity via a motor. It is expected to generate about 50 watts worth of power which is sufficient as a proof of concept. This project hopes to improve understanding of hydropower amongst students and improve the quality of education