Vertical Kaplan turbines

Vertical Kaplan turbines

Maximum capacity and grid stability for large-scale hydropower generation.

The Vertical Kaplan turbine represents the traditional, high-capacity standard for low-to-medium head hydropower plants. As a double-regulated machine equipped with adjustable runner blades and guide vanes, it is hydraulically optimized for a relatively wide range of head and a wide range of discharge.

The vertical shaft arrangement specifically accommodates generators with massive inertia, making it the premier choice for large-scale units that require exceptional grid stability and flexible, continuous operation.


Operational parameters

Runner diameterUp to 10 m
Blade arrangements3 to 6 blades available, depending on specific discharge and head requirements
Regulation optionsDouble-regulated (adjustable runner blades combined with regulated guide vanes (wicket gates)
Maintenance capability: Designed, upon request, to allow replacement of all runner mechanism bearings while the unit remains fully installed.

HPP Jettenbach-Töging: revitalizing a century of hydropower heritage

  • Kaplan turbine
  • Europe
  • Refurbishment

Located on Germany's River Inn, the Jettenbach-Töging hydropower scheme has powered the region for more than a century.

Read more

Massive inertia & stability

The vertical shaft accommodates massive, top-mounted generators. Their high rotational inertia provides exceptional system stability, ensuring the unit remains highly resilient and responsive to sudden grid fluctuations.

Unmatched in-place maintenance

The vertical powerhouse layout offers excellent accessibility for maintenance.
Low maintenance cycles and innovative solutions help in reducing the unit downtime

Advanced frequency control

Leveraging the unit's high rotational inertia, our advanced governor systems enable precise primary frequency control and flexible operation. Optimized control algorithms minimize wear and help extend the service life of runner critical components.

Ready to Build Your Next Powerhouse?

Whether you are planning a greenfield installation or need to uprate a century-old turbine, our engineering teams are ready to architect your solution.