How to Reduce Water Pressure for Microturbines

Determine the maximum amount of water pressure that can be generated from the water source. This is usually a elevated stream or body of water. For instance, if a mountain stream feeds the turbine feed pipe, you can use the size of the pipe and elevation to calculate the maximum static water pressure or head. Do this with the formula P = d x g x h where P is the head pressure in pounds per square inch (psi), d is the density in pounds per cubic feet (lbs/ft3), g is a gravitational constant at 32.2 feet per square second and h is the elevation of the stream in feet. For calculation purposes, assume the water density is 62.4 lb/ft3 and the elevation is 10 feet. The static pressure will be 20,093 pounds per square foot or 140 psi (1 psf = 0.006 psi).

Determine the best method to reduce water pressure. The first method is an increase in feed pipe size. Increasing the diameter of the pipe will also reduce the pressure. This may be practical if the pipeline from the elevated stream to the turbine is above ground and can be easily replaced.

Install a pressure regulator in the feed pipeline. This is commonly used if the pipeline is underground. The point where the pipeline feeds directly into the turbine is where you should install the regulator. Achieve this by breaking the pipeline and setting the regulator between the pipeline and the turbine. Set the pressure regulator to control the pressure of the water in the feed line.