Project Progress Report

On
Design a Tesla Turbine for
Pico hydro-power application

A minor project proposal report created by students of the

Mechanical Department (5th semester)

Team Members:
1. Yash Vashishth (21107083)
2. Saket Priyadarshi (21107084)
3. Dipanshu Panda (21107085)
4. Pankaj Gupta (21107086)
5. Mudransh Sethi (21107087)
Project Guide/Mentor:
Prof. Achitanand Dubey (Mechanical Dept.)

PUNJAB ENGINEERING COLLEGE

(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

S. No. TITLE
1. Abstract
2. Chapter 1: Introduction
3. Chapter 2: Literature Review
4. Chapter 3: Objectives of the project
Scope of learning
5. Chapter 4: Work Methodology
6. Chapter 5: Progress

7. Chapter 6: Future Aspects

8. Chapter 7: Applications

9. Chapter 8: Limitations
10. References
 ABSTRACT

This project aims to design a Tesla turbine as a suitable solution for power
generation in rural areas by integrating them into water supply systems
connected to large storage tanks. The primary objectives are to identify
improvements in Tesla turbine design and evaluate the physical viability of their
deployment in off-grid locations.
The process will begin by conducting a comprehensive review of existing
literature and research conducted on Tesla turbines. Subsequently, focusing on
their operational principles and previous applications, this project will involve
the assessment of the practicality of attaching Tesla turbines to water supply
lines connected to large storage tanks in rural settings. Factors such as water
flow rates, pressure variations, and maintenance requirements will be crucial
parts of analysing the compatibility of Tesla turbines under specific conditions
and the use case we are proposing.
We anticipate that the outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights into
the potential of Tesla turbines as a cost-effective and sustainable energy solution
for underserved rural areas. These findings could pave the way for further
research and development, ultimately contributing to the advancement of
renewable energy options in remote regions.
 LITERATURE REVIEW

S.No. Title Author Methodology & Conclusion

1. Studies of the The research focuses on the rotating-disk boundary

rotating-disk layer flow and its application in understanding
Shintaro Imayama cross-flow instability and industrial flow
boundary-layer flow
configurations. The main objective of the study is
to clarify the transition process and investigate the
turbulent rotating disk boundary layer. To achieve
this, an experimental apparatus with low vibration
levels and a smooth surface was used for accurate
measurements.

2. Study and Design of The design of the Tesla turbine was done on the
Bladeless Tesla M.Sivaramakrishnaiah basis of different assumptions. All the design of
Turbine Y. Santhosh Reddy parts of the Tesla turbine was done on the basis of
G. Sudarsana Reddy the properties of the steam at different assumed
pressures at the inlet of the nozzle. calculated the
output torque i.e. 62300.09503 W and input power
of the turbine i.e. 179.584×10 3W. It is an
advantage that multiple-disk turbo machines can
operate with abrasive two-phase flow mixtures
with less erosion of material from the rotor.

3. Design and In this report, the design and computational fluid

Computational Raunak Jung Pandey dynamics (CFD) analysis of 1 kW tesla turbine
Analysis of 1kW Sanam Pudasaini was carried out. The models thus created were
Saurav Dhakal Uprety used for computational analysis. Tesla turbine is a
Tesla Turbine versatile turbine. It can be used in Pico
Hari Prasad Neopane
hydropower which can be locally produced and
managed by village communities. It can be used as
pumped storage systems.

4. The rotating disk This thesis deals with the instabilities of the
boundary-layer flow incompressible boundary-layer flow that is
induced by a disk rotating in otherwise still fluid.
studied through
The results presented include both work in the
numerical simulations Ellinor Appelquist linear and nonlinear regime and are derived from
DNS. The research provides insights to turbulence.
 OBJECTIVE AND SCOPE
The objective of this project is to attempt to design a Tesla turbine keeping in
mind boundary layer conditions, trying to include the best of already researched
in order to make it a viable power-generating source (Pico hydro-power
application) for power generation in rural areas.

Scope of study-
Principles of Tesla Turbine:
• Explore the fundamental principles of the Tesla Turbine working
phenomena and study the concepts of fluid flow in boundary layer
conditions related to it.
• Investigate the historical context and Nikola Tesla's contributions to
turbine development and reasons for not being a product fit for wider
adoption.
Design and Geometry:
• Analytical calculation of disk spacing, size, and configuration and then
design components of the Tesla turbine using CAD software.
• Examine the impact of geometry on turbine efficiency and performance.
Materials and Manufacturing:
• Select cost-effective materials for Tesla turbine construction.
• Investigate the optimum materials for generating maximum output from
the turbine.
Computational Modelling and Simulation:
• Explore the role of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations in
optimizing Tesla turbine designs.
• Highlight how simulation tools aid in performance prediction and design
refinement.
Applications:
• Investigate various applications where Tesla turbines have shown
promise, such as power generation, pumping systems, and propulsion.
• Discuss their suitability for handling different fluids, including viscous,
abrasive, and corrosive media.
 METHODOLOGY
Understand boundary layer
Literature Review conditions and behavioural
dynamics of the fluid experiencing
the effect.
Displacement thickness
Momentum thickness
Boundary layer thickness
Shear stresses generated

CAD in modelling using Practical Mathematical

SolidWorks Calculations
Disc Inlet velocity
Washer Disc diameter
Casing Inlet diameter
Shaft Distance between disc plates
Bearing

Analysis of the disc design along

with its case under stresses
generated by the rotational effect Overall conclusion,
of the fluid using Ansys open Recommendation, Findings
foam.
Apt material fulfilling the
purpose of turbine.
 PROGRESS
The study underscores the significance of comprehending the rotating disk
boundary-layer flow. Our research has thoroughly looked into the important
math equations that describe how boundary layers work on rotating surfaces.
We carefully studied these equations to really understand the complicated way
that boundary layers interact with rotating surfaces. This in-depth analysis is the
basis of our study.

Governing Equations:

Energy Conservation:
In order to calculate the inlet velocity of the water entering into the Tesla turbine
via supply lines.

𝑉 = √2 ∗ 𝑔 ∗ 𝐻
𝑃 = 𝜌∗𝑔∗𝐻
Here,
V = Inlet Velocity
H = Height of overhead water tank from ground
g = Accn. due to gravity

Rotating disk flows are distinguished by Rosby number 𝑅°

𝜔𝑓 −𝜔𝑑
𝑅° =
𝜔𝑎

The Rossby number is defined as the ratio of the mean axial velocity to the
azimuthal flow velocity.
𝜔𝑓 +𝜔𝑑 (𝜔𝑓 +𝜔𝑑 )2 (𝜔𝑓 −𝜔𝑑 )2
Here, 𝜔𝑎 = ( )+√ +
4 16 2

𝜔𝑓 = Fluid angular velocity outside the boundary layer

𝜔𝑑 = Disk angular velocity
𝜔𝑓 = 0 , since every calculation is to be within the boundary layer
𝜔𝑎 = 𝜔𝑑 hence, 𝑅° = −1
At centre of disk, the flow is stable since Reynolds number (Re), ratio of inertial
forces to viscous forces is small.
𝜔𝑑
𝑅𝑒 = 𝑟 √
𝜗
Here,
r = Local radius of the disk
𝜔𝑑 = Angular velocity of the disk
𝜗 = Kinematic viscosity of the fluid

Navier- Stoke’s Equation:

Conservation of mass-
∇. 𝑢̅ = 0
𝑢̅ = (𝑢, 𝑣, 𝑤)
𝜕𝑢 𝜕𝑣 𝜕𝑤
∇. 𝑢̅ = + +
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦 𝜕𝑧
Conservation of momentum-
𝑑𝑢̅
𝜌 = −∇𝑃 + 𝜇∇2 𝑢̅ + 𝜌𝐹
𝑑𝑡

Here,
−∇𝑃 + 𝜇∇2 𝑢̅ are the internal forces
𝜌𝐹 is the external force that will be Coriolis and centrifugal forces in our case
Radial Velocity-
𝜋𝐷𝑁 𝜔𝑑
𝑈= =
60 2
Torque = (𝑢𝑜 𝜗𝑜 − 𝑢𝑖 𝜗𝑖 )𝑄′ 𝜌
𝑇 = (𝑢𝑜 𝜗𝑜 − 𝑢𝑖 𝜗𝑖 )𝑛𝑄𝜌
𝑇𝜔
Efficiency =
𝑄𝑔𝐻

Here,
Q = Volumetric flow rate
n = number of discs
𝑢𝑜 = outlet velocity
𝜗𝑜 = viscosity at outlet
𝑢𝑖 = inlet velocity
𝜗𝑖 = viscosity at inlet

FUTURE ASPECTS
1. Enhanced Efficiency: Future Tesla turbines for hydropower aim to improve
energy conversion efficiency, maximizing electricity generation from flowing
water.
2. Compact for Remote Areas: Their compact design makes them suitable for
small-scale hydropower installations in remote or off-grid locations.
3. Low Maintenance: Tesla turbines have fewer moving parts, potentially
lowering maintenance needs and operational costs for hydropower plants.
4. Eco-Friendly Design: Their efficient design may reduce the environmental
impact of hydropower, benefiting aquatic ecosystems and fish passage.
5. Integration with Energy Storage: Tesla turbines can be integrated with energy
storage systems, enhancing grid reliability for hydropower-generated electricity.
6. Ongoing Research: Continued research and development efforts will focus on
materials, design improvements, and control systems tailored specifically for
hydropower applications.
 APPLICATIONS
1. Fluid Transport: Tesla turbines efficiently move fluids, finding use in pumps
and compressors for industrial processes, HVAC systems, and pneumatic tools.
2. Power Generation: They are employed in power generation, especially in
small-scale hydroelectric and geothermal plants due to their compactness and
efficiency.
3. Aerospace: Tesla turbines are suited for propulsion in drones and small
aircraft due to their lightweight design and precise fluid control.
4. Automotive: They have the potential to enhance engine efficiency in cars,
reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
5. Water Treatment: They assist in water purification and wastewater treatment
by efficiently moving fluids, aiding in mixing and aeration.
6. Cooling Systems: Tesla turbines can be integrated into electronics cooling
systems to efficiently dissipate heat.
7. Steam Power: Tesla turbines function as expansion turbines in steam power
plants, recovering energy from steam to improve overall efficiency.

LIMITATIONS
• 50 years past its inception a great amount of interest rise is observed in
the field with researchers working to increase its efficiency and tackle a
major drawback of low torque output.
• Disc material required should be able to bear the continuous shearing
stress exerted by incoming water at high velocity.
• Exact solution for Navier stokes equation is yet unknown so judging the
fluid behaviour inside the gaps between the disc accurately is not possible
this may lead to efficiency loss.
• The time frame within which the project completion is demanded is not
sufficient to analyse and fabricate a full-scale model, hence we are aiming
for a prototype of the idea we want to present
 REFERENCES
• Study and Design of Bladeless Tesla Turbine
by M. Sivaramakrishnaiah, Dr. Y. Santhosh Kumar Reddy, G. Sudarsana
Reddy; Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering & Technology

• Studies of the rotating-disk boundary-layer flow

by Shintaro Imayama

• The rotating-disk boundary-layer flow by numerical simulations

by Ellinor Appelquist

• Design and Computational Analysis of 1kW Tesla Turbine

by Raunak Jung Pandey, Sanam Pudasaini, Saurav Dhakal, Rangeet
Ballav Uprety, Dr. Hari Prasad Neopane

• The influence of outlet system geometry on Tesla Turbine working

parameters
by Krzysztof Rusin, Silesian University of Technology
Konarskiego 18, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland

• Development of hybrid Tesla Turbine and current trends in

application of Tesla turbine
by Nikhil Bankar, Anil Chavan, Sanket Dhole, Prashant Patunkar
Mechanical Engineering Department,
Sinhgad Institute of Technology and Science, Narhe, Pune, India

• CFD investigation of the performance analysis of Tesla turbine

By Kevin Joseph, R Jeyanthinathan, R Harish
School of Mechanical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology
Chennai, Tamil Nadu-600127, India.

• The Tesla Turbine- A comprehensive review

by Mohammad Zuber, Adithya Ramesh, Darpan Bansal
1 Department of Aeronautical & Automobile Engineering, Manipal
Institute of Technology, Manipal, India
2 Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Manipal
Institute of Technology, Manipal, Ind