Francis Turbine and Wicket Gates

The Francis turbine is not directly visible, as it is located under the cover of the guide vanes, which in turn are under water. The water flows through the opened blades of the guide vanes onto the blades of the Francis turbine.The guide vanes are each individually coupled with a ring which is connected to the governor by a linkage.

The model turbine shows in cross-section how the water first flows into the water chamber, then through the guide vane (grey) onto the red turbine and through the suction pipe into the tailrace channel.

Technical data of the turbine and guide vane

Manufacturer:  Bell, Kriens 1920
drop height:  0.95 - 1.30 m
Water quantity: max. 6 m3/s
Maximum power: 61.8 kW (84 HP)
Impeller diameter:  2.36 m
Impeller height: 1.02 m
Impeller blades: 15 pieces
Speed: 26 rpm
Wheel weight: 40 kN (approx. 4000 kg)
Number of guide blades: 24 pieces
Guide vane height: 0.54 m
Guide vane diameter: 2.93 m