Archimedes Hydropower Screw Generator

This side project explored whether an Archimedes screw could generate usable power from water flowing through a stream.

Project concept

• Divert water temporarily from the stream and return it after it passes through the screw.
• Use the screw to turn a permanent magnet alternator.
• Test whether the system can produce useful wattage with less than eight feet of fall.

Why an Archimedes screw is interesting: debris and small wildlife can pass through more gently than many other water power approaches.

The complete design and construction were performed at SignMonkey, and the first results were promising. Further testing can measure actual output over time.