Comparative Study of Materials to Improve the Performance of Simple Water Wheels in the Utilization of Hydro Energi

Abstract

Water wheels are one of the examples of renewable energy generators that have been used for a long time. However, the improvement of the performance of simple water wheels still needs further investigation, especially regarding the influence of materials, as there has been limited research on this aspect. This study aims to conduct a comparative study of materials that can enhance the performance of a simple water wheel in harnessing hydro energy. In this research, the performance of water wheels made of wood, aluminum, and plastic was examined. Testing was carried out by measuring the voltage and electric current generated by the water wheels using a multimeter. The water wheels made of wood, aluminum, and plastic produced voltage and electric current values of 2.80 V and 6.90 mA, 2.88 V and 7.82 mA, and 2.93 V and 9.64 mA, respectively. The results of the study indicate that plastic exhibits better performance, as it generates higher voltage and electric current compared to wood and aluminum. The larger the values of voltage and electric current produced by the water wheel, the better its performance. Hence, the materials used in constructing a simple water wheel have an impact on its performance