Watter Buddy

Product Description

The Watter Buddy is a small package water turbine generator designed by Energy Systems & Designs, capable of generating DC power from a running water source. The system can be used with water systems such as the city water supplying systems which are under a certain pressure as well. The manufacturing facility is situated in Waterford, Canada.

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

Energy Systems & Design. ^{Interview with representative}

Manufacturing/Building Method

Mass produced. ^{Interview with representative}

Intellectural Property Type

Trademarked

User Provision Model

Directly from the manufacturer.

Distributions to Date Status

Approximately 100 as of 2018. ^{Interview with representative}

Output voltage: (VAC)

Unknown

Power output, min (kW at head, flow rate)

0.006 kW at 21 m, 0.25 L/s

Power output, max (kW at head, flow rate)

0.274 kW at 35 m, 2 L/s

Output frequency (Hz)

267 Hz

Minimum required head (m)

Varies

Minimum required flow rate (L/s)

Varies

Number of nozzles

1 to 4 nozzles

Weight (kg)

3.6 kg

Phase

3-phase

Design Specifications

The system has two models 12/24 or 48/120 volts. The output power of the device is up to 200 W. It is small and weighs only 3.6 kg. The number of nozzles can range from 1 to 4. Brass nozzles are supplied with the device from 3 mm up to 7 mm in size. For higher head applications smaller nozzles can be used and for lower head applications larger size nozzles can be used. See performance charts below. Watter Buddy Nozzle Size Chart with Flow and Power Output in Watts

Technical Support

The manufacturers in Canada may provide technical support. Local electricians or plumbers may be of assistance but it is possible that they are not familiar with this specific technology. Additionally, the manufacturer provides a user manual, which offers advice on measuring flow rate, determining head, and guiding the installation of the system, although the directions are fairly complex and require some technical expertise. Not all parts necessary for a complete system are included in the kit

Replacement Components

Unknown

Lifecycle

90-day warranty on Watter Buddy, no specified plan for disposal.^{Interview with representative}

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

Unknown

Vetted Performance Status

Unknown

Safety

Varying water flow rates can cause an increase in voltage beyond battery rated capacity (potentially lethal), improper installation can lead to electrical fires.

Complementary Technical Systems

Additional components can be purchased by sending a direct inquiry regarding additions to the water buddy system.

Academic Research and References

No research related to this specific product performance is available, although other products by this manufacturer have been included in market analysis studies.

Kusakana, K., Munda, J.L., Jimoh, A.A., A survey of technologies increasing the viability of micro-hydropower as a cost-effective energy source for remote communities in South Africa. AFRICON 2009. 2009 Sept 23-25, pp. 1-4.

Ranjitkar, G., Huang, J., Tung, T., Application of micro-hydropower technology for remote regions. EIC Climate Change Technology. 2006 May 10-12, pp. 1-6.

Compliance with regulations

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requirements for grid-tie.

Other Information

Our Products – Energy Systems & Design (microhydropower.com)