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Noise Generation and Acoustic Impact of Free Surface Hydropower Machines: Focus on Water Wheels and Emerging Challenges

Author

Listed:
  • Emanuele Quaranta

    (European Commission Joint Research Centre, 10127 Ispra, Italy)

  • Gerald Müller

    (Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK)

Abstract

The noise generated by free surface hydropower machines, e.g., water wheels, has led to complaints and to restrictions in their operation in urban areas. This problem generally occurs when water wheels are not well designed and are installed without expertise. Despite the relevance of the problem, and the growing interest in the use of water wheels at existing low head barriers, the acoustic impact of water wheels has not yet been properly addressed by the scientific community. Therefore, in this manuscript, the importance of the problem and the related scientific challenges are discussed, supported by case studies and theoretical considerations. A literature review on the topic is carried out, although little information is available in the scientific domain. The aim of this work is to increase the awareness on this problem, in order to stimulate future research and to suggest useful guidelines for future water wheel projects, thereby increasing the water wheel potential and reducing noise disturbance for people.

Suggested Citation

  • Emanuele Quaranta & Gerald Müller, 2021. "Noise Generation and Acoustic Impact of Free Surface Hydropower Machines: Focus on Water Wheels and Emerging Challenges," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(24), pages 1-7, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:24:p:13051-:d:699678
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Quaranta, Emanuele & Revelli, Roberto, 2018. "Gravity water wheels as a micro hydropower energy source: A review based on historic data, design methods, efficiencies and modern optimizations," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 97(C), pages 414-427.
    2. Quaranta, Emanuele & Revelli, Roberto, 2015. "Performance characteristics, power losses and mechanical power estimation for a breastshot water wheel," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 87(C), pages 315-325.
    3. Sarah L. Benz & Julia Kuhlmann & Dirk Schreckenberg & Jördis Wothge, 2021. "Contributors to Neighbour Noise Annoyance," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(15), pages 1-14, July.
    4. Mohamed, M.H., 2019. "Criticism study of J-Shaped darrieus wind turbine: Performance evaluation and noise generation assessment," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 177(C), pages 367-385.
    5. Mar Alonso-Martinez & José Luis Suárez Sierra & Juan José del Coz Díaz & Juan Enrique Martinez-Martinez, 2020. "A New Methodology to Design Sustainable Archimedean Screw Turbines as Green Energy Generators," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(24), pages 1-14, December.
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