THE HYDROPOWER STEM PRESSURE MACHINE (SPM)

In the past, water wheels were built exclusively as either overshot or undershot machines. The primary disadvantage of such waterwheel types was their low intake apacity and consequently, poor efficiency. This recently patented SDM-OVERA represents a hydraulic power plant with the ability to compete with the performance of low pressure turbines. The SDM-OVERA not only utilizes potential energy (head), but also kinetic energy (flow energy) of large amounts of water.

Working Methods and Economic Aspects

The SDM-OVERA can be built with one or more paddle wheels side by side. Each wheel confines and utilizes the water flow channel by its hub and the lowest paddle. In idle motion, all the water passes through the wheel unimpeded. While producing power (slowing of the wheels), the water level rises in front of the machine which corresponds both to the desired performance and the given head. Because of this characteristic, while having large water quantities and a relatively low head, the SDM-OVERA is capable of substituting a low pressure turbine. The SDM-OVERA will operate efficiently and profitably even if turbines cannot function due to a low head, less than 1 meter for instance.

Advantages to Environment

Due to its unique construction, manner of operation, and the ability to perform adequately with a low head, it can be installed directly in existing weirs and river beds. No operational channel is required. The remaining problems associated with hydro plants or turbines are resolved.

This is the first time in history that a hydropower plant of this magnitude will be available that will maintain debris and sedimentation transport through the machine at the bottom of the river bed. Fish, macrozoa, and sediments can pass safely through the SDM-OVERA-Module downstream.

Because the SDM-OVERA needs only a coarse grating for its own protection against large drifting objects, all debris can easily pass through so that the natural substances which are important to flora and fauna remain in the river. All this can be accomplished without the risk of a buildup of deposits. Unlike other hydroelectric applications which create cavities and damage river beds, the SDM-OVERA creates no turbulence, therefore high velocity water is eliminated.

As a result of its extremely high efficiency, its ability to maintain the natural flow of water in the river bed, and the fact there is no water loss from the river, the SDM-OVERA has every technological and ecological advantage over a competing conventional hydro plant.

Without any exaggeration, it can be summarized that the main advantages of the SDM-OVERA technology are a result of its extremely high efficiency, its ability to maintain the natural flow of water in the river bed as well as the fact that no water is taken from the river. The ecological advantages of the SDM-OVERA benefit exactly the points, which are critical for conventional plants.

More detailed information (pdf-file with 233 KB)