Hydro‐Power Intake Design Considerations

Abstract

This paper presents a brief overview of factors to be considered in the design of hydropower penstock intakes. The paper notes areas of design concern including hydraulic losses, size and complexity of the intake with its associated gates and accessory equipment, the potential for air‐entraining vortex formation, release water quality control through selective withdrawal, gate design, stoplog design, trashrack design, fish diversion and passage, ice control and exclusion, and sediment control and exclusion. Alternative design approaches with recommended design criteria are given. Quality, application‐oriented references which supply substantial design guidance and support are cited. Specific examples that illustrate successful and unsuccessful designs are discussed and referenced. Specific concerns or deviations associated with high head, and pumped storage intakes are noted. It is intended that through use of the initial guidance given by this paper and the more detailed investigations generated, an appropriate, well‐conceived intake design can be achieved.