Study of water channels and gates to improve water wheel performance

Abstract

Glintung Water Street (GWS) in Malang City harnesses water flow in its canal to drive water wheels for electricity generation. However, the discharge of water has not been optimized, necessitating the design of the canal and sluice gate to maximize discharge while mitigating flooding risks. This research aims to determine the optimal design and operational system of the sluice gate to minimize backwater impact. Data collection involved observational techniques and literature review, including hydrology, map, and hydraulic data. Results indicated that the required discharge for the micro-hydro power plant (PLTMH) in the Glintung Water Street (GWS) area was 88 liters or approximately 0.088m3/s. The primary channel's flow rate was measured at 0.104 m3/s, with planned channel inflow at 0.088 m3/s. The sluice gate effectively prevented backwater impact, as water levels did not surpass the sluice height. Planning involved a sluice gate made of mild steel plate (100 cm x 100 cm) with a door height of 200 cm and a thickness of 0.18 cm, operated by a handlebar with a diameter of 2 cm. In conclusion, the backwater effect on the primary channel's water level was minimal, affirming the efficacy of the designed sluice gate.