RT Journal Article
T1 Turbine-Based Generation in Greenhouse Irrigation Systems
A1 Rodríguez Pérez, Ángel Mariano
A1 García Chica, Antonio
A1 Caparrós Mancera, Julio José
A1 Rodríguez González, César Antonio
AB This study addresses the need for sustainable and energy-efficient agricultural practices by integrating turbine systems into greenhouse irrigation setups that utilize water from storage basins or ponds. The purpose is to harness excess pressure to generate electricity, enhancing overall system efficiency. This study involves designing a scalable turbine system that adapts to different greenhouse sizes and water pressure conditions. Key methods include a novel 3D design and implementation of a turbine outlet, using CAD modeling and high-precision 3D printing, and the experimental characterization of the system’s power–pressure relationship and pressure losses. Results demonstrate that a single Banki-type turbine generates nearly 12 W at a maximum pressure of 1.4 bar, 0.98 m3/h of flow, pressure 92% loss performance, and 32% efficiency. Scalability tests in the study case reveal that up to eight turbines can be installed in series without dropping below the critical pressure threshold, that is, above 0.6–0.7 bar, the minimum pressure expected for adequate irrigation, and the turbines collectively produce around 60 W, considering the pressure losses with respect to production. These findings confirm the system’s potential to enhance sustainability and energy efficiency in greenhouse operations. This study lays a foundation for future research to optimize 3D-printed components, integrate renewable energy sources, and conduct long-term performance studies, aiming to further improve the system’s applicability and performance in agricultural settings.
PB MDPI
SN 2306-5338 (electrónico)
YR 2024
FD 2024-09
LK https://hdl.handle.net/10272/24170
UL https://hdl.handle.net/10272/24170
LA eng
NO Rodríguez-Pérez, Á. M., García-Chica, A., Caparros-Mancera, J. J., & Rodríguez, C. A. (2024). Turbine-Based Generation in Greenhouse Irrigation Systems. In Hydrology (Vol. 11, Issue 9, p. 149). MDPI AG. https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology11090149
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Huelva
RD 14 jul 2026