Kaplan-Turbine

Hidden in plain sight, the Kaplan-Turbine stands as a testament to ingenuity. This isn’t just any turbine. It’s a piece of history, salvaged from the Kraemer’sche Kunstmühle, a water power plant that churned and roared from 1904 to 1984. Since 2000, these turbine parts have found a new home here, whispering tales of a bygone era of industrial innovation. The Kaplan-Turbine, patented in 1913 by Viktor Kaplan, revolutionized hydropower. It’s a refinement of the Francis turbine, designed for low water heads and fluctuating flows. Imagine the Isar River, its currents shifting, and this turbine, steadily generating power. Kaplan’s genius lay in the adjustable runner blades, allowing the turbine to adapt to changing water conditions. This clever design made it perfect for river power plants, irrigation canals, and even old mills. The Kaplan-Turbine’s impact extended far beyond Munich. Its efficiency and adaptability made it a global game-changer in hydropower. Viktor Kaplan, a close collaborator with Voith, a prominent German engineering company, saw his invention embraced and further developed by the very company he frequented. Voith, recognizing the potential of Kaplan’s design, began producing Kaplan-Turbines in 1922, marking a pivotal moment in hydropower history. The Kaplan-Turbine before you, though silent now, once played a vital role in harnessing the Isar’s power. It’s a tangible piece of engineering history, a reminder of how innovation can transform the way we interact with nature. As you stand here, consider the ingenuity of Viktor Kaplan, whose invention continues to shape energy production around the world. This Kaplan-Turbine, a silent giant of industrial progress, offers a glimpse into Munich’s past and a connection to the enduring power of human innovation.