Frances Turbine vs Kaplan Turbine

Frances Turbine vs Kaplan Turbine : What are the some of the differences between the two? 

Frances Turbine is one of the most widely used hydro turbines due to its high efficiency and versatility in a wide range of head and flow conditions. 

Kaplan Turbine is typically used for low to medium head hydroelectric power generation, particularly in large scale plants.

Both Turbines are specifically designed to meet certain needs so lets find the difference between the Frances Turbine and Kaplan Turbine

To learn the difference between different turbine type read our article Difference Between Inward Flow and Outward Flow Reaction Hydro Turbine

Frances Turbine vs Kaplan Turbine

Type of Turbine

France Turbine is radially inward or mixed flow Turbine whereas Kaplan Turbine is partially axial floe

Position of shafts

In France Turbine position of shaft can be in vertical or horizontal whereas in Kaplan Turbine position of shaft is only in vertical direction.

Number of vanes

France Turbine has very large number of blades 16 to 24 whereas Kaplan Turbine has very small number of blades 3 to 8

Adjustment of runner vanes 

France Turbine Runner vanes are not adjustable whereas Kaplan Turbine Runner vanes are adjustable

Resistance to over come

France Turbine very large resistances have to be over come whereas Kaplan Turbine very less resistances have to be over come

Head

France Turbine medium head is required whereas Kaplan Turbine very low head is required

Flow Rate

France Turbine medium flow rate is required whereas Kaplan Turbine very large flow rate is required

Specific Speed

France Turbine 50 to 250 rpm whereas Kaplan Turbine 250 to 850 rpm 

Type of generator

France Turbine regular generator is required whereas Kaplan Turbine heavy duty generator is required

Conclusion on Frances turbine vs Kaplan Turbine

So that's was our comparison of Frances turbine vs Kaplan turbine. Hopefully this has added valuable knowledge and had cleared your concepts about difference between Frances turbine and Kaplan turbine.