What whispers does this iron giant hold? This is the Jonval-Turbine. It stands as a testament to Zurich’s industrial past. Prepare to delve into the story of innovation and power. The Jonval-Turbine represents a significant leap in hydraulic technology. It was widely adopted across Europe and the United States.
This turbine, patented in France in 1843 by Nicolas J. Jonval, marked an evolution in water turbine design. However, the turbine was invented in 1837 by the German engineer Carl Anton Henschel. Therefore, in Germany it is also known as Henschel-Jonval turbine. The Jonval turbine is a mixed-flow turbine. This design proved particularly effective for low-head applications. These were common in the eastern United States. Its compact size, enhanced speed, and cost-effectiveness made it a game changer. The Jonval-Turbine efficiently handled variable water levels. It soon replaced the traditional vertical waterwheel. It became the primary power source for American industries.
The design of the Jonval-Turbine is ingenious. Water flows downward through fixed, curved guide vanes. These vanes redirect the water sideways. The water then hits curved vanes on the runner. This innovative approach maximized energy extraction. A key feature was the suction pipe below the turbine. This pipe acted as a diffuser. It allowed the turbine to use the entire fall height. This was possible even when the turbine was above the tailwater level.
Initially, the public missed seeing waterwheels in action. Yet, the benefits of the Jonval-Turbine quickly overshadowed this minor aesthetic drawback. While efficient at full gate, some Francis turbine designs proved more efficient at partial gate. The wheel’s orientation was typically horizontal. Early models were even called horizontal water wheels. Some designs featured vertical shafts too.
An American manufacturer, N.F. Burnham, improved upon the design. His turbines offered greater efficiency. They had fewer maintenance issues than the original Jonval.
Here in Zurich, a Jonval-Turbine found a home in the Höngg power plant. For eighty years, from 1898 to 1978, it generated 200 kW of power. It served the former Waser power plant. Today, the power plant is partially a museum. The historic turbines, including this Jonval turbine, are operated for demonstrations.
Jonval-Turbines played a vital role in the industrial revolution. They harnessed waterpower to drive machinery. One notable application was in Geneva. The Usine des Forces Motrices used Jonval-Turbines to power a water distribution system. This system supplied pressurized water to industries.
The Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia also employed Jonval-Turbines. Three turbines powered six piston pumps. These pumps supplied water to one of North America’s oldest urban water supplies.
Even Augsburg, Germany, utilized Jonval-Turbines for its waterworks. From 1878 to 1910, they drove piston pumps for drinking water. The Jonval-Turbine facilitated the start of industrialization in Augsburg.
As you stand before this Jonval-Turbine, consider its legacy. It stands as a symbol of innovation and progress. It represents a pivotal moment in engineering history. The Jonval-Turbine helped to shape the modern world.