Experimental Evaluation of Hydrokinetic Turbine Performance: A Comparative Study of Inlet and Outlet Channel Angles

Akhmad Nurdin, Zuryati Djafar, Nasruddin Azis, Wahyu H. Piarah

Abstract: The hydrokinetic turbine is a recent renewable energy technology capable of converting kinetic energy of natural water currents into mechanical and electrical power. The performance of these systems is strongly influenced by the geometry of flow-guide channel used to direct and accelerate water flow into and out of turbine. Therefore, this study investigates the performance of a horizontal-axis hydrokinetic turbine by examining the effects of nozzle inlet angles (10°, 20°, 30°) and diffuser outlet angles (10°, 13.9°, 15°) on mechanical power and energy conversion efficiency. The turbine system was tested in the Manggar River, with configurations mounted on a floating platform and towed at controlled speeds. Results showed that the 30° nozzle inlet angle yielded the highest mechanical power, while the 13.9° diffuser outlet angle achieved the best power coefficient. The findings highlight that optimal channel geometry must be chosen based on specific performance goals, such as maximizing mechanical output or improving energy conversion efficiency, offering practical guidance for deploying turbines in low-flow river environments.

Keywords: Hydrokinetic energy, nozzle, diffuser, inlet angle, outlet angle, mechanical power, power coefficient

How to Cite?: Akhmad Nurdin, Zuryati Djafar, Nasruddin Azis, Wahyu H. Piarah, "Experimental Evaluation of Hydrokinetic Turbine Performance: A Comparative Study of Inlet and Outlet Channel Angles", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1428-1433, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251207114443, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251207114443