Pelton Wheel — Recommended Bucket Depth For a Pelton wheel, the typical depth of a bucket is approximately how many times the jet diameter?

Introduction:
Geometric proportions of Pelton buckets (width, depth, splitter dimensions) are standardized to capture and deflect the jet effectively while minimizing losses and avoiding jet interference.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Impulse turbine with free jet striking double-cupped buckets.
• Design guidance from classical proportions used in practice.

Concept / Approach:
Bucket depth affects jet containment and deflection angle. Too shallow causes spillage; too deep increases friction and weight. Empirical design ratios recommend bucket depth about 1.2 * d, where d is jet diameter, balancing capture and hydraulic efficiency.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Choose bucket dimensions based on jet size.Adopt depth ≈ 1.2 * d to house the jet adequately.Verify clearance to avoid interference with adjacent buckets.

Verification / Alternative check:
Reference proportion sets also suggest bucket width ≈ 5 * d and pitch ≈ 2.3 * d, consistent with the chosen depth.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
equal to: marginal capture; prone to spillage.1.8 times and double: unnecessarily deep, increasing losses and mass.

Common Pitfalls:
Using nonstandard ratios that degrade hydraulic efficiency.

Final Answer:
1.2 times