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A penstock is a channel used to control the flow of water, often with a gate or valve. It originated in watermills and is now used in hydroelectric dams and flood control systems. Penstocks can be pipes or channels and require regular maintenance. They can also be used to control runoff in landfills and wastewater treatment plants.
A penstock is a channel used to feed or carry away water. The flow of water through the penstock can be controlled with a sluice gate or gate that moves up and down. This term, and the technology, originated in watermills which used the flow of water to turn a wheel which in turn generated energy for grinding grain. Similar technology can be used in hydroelectric dams, as well as flood control systems designed to trap and regulate water flow to prevent sudden changes in water levels.
Penstocks can take the form of pipes or long channels, depending on the facility. Historically, canals were more commonly used and were dug to connect with an existing waterway. When the gate valve is fully open, water flows freely through the gate valve. When closed, water is restricted and less enters. A grate or strainer can be used to trap large debris such as branches and other floating materials so that debris does not enter the channel and clog it.
Controlling the amount of water in the penstock allows people to regulate the amount of water released at the other end. For things like flood control, penstocks can be wide open in the dry season to allow water through and can be partially closed during wet times of the year to hold water back. A holding tank or pond may be placed behind the penstock to hold water that would otherwise accumulate and put pressure on the lock.
The ability to fully close the gate or lock allows people to drain the penstocks so they can be inspected, maintained and repaired. These channels usually need regular cleaning to remove debris that builds up over time and to scrub the sides to get rid of algae and bacterial mats. Holes, cracks and other problems may develop that require periodic repairs. Routine maintenance is used to prevent catastrophic failures that could cause flooding and other problems.
In addition to being used to direct the flow of water into or through something, a penstock can also be used to control runoff. A common example can be seen in landfills and wastewater treatment plants. Fluids from both structures must be released, but the rate of release must be controlled for safety reasons. In the event of contamination, the ability to close a gate and completely block the release of water is also important to protect your surroundings.
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