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Innovative Tesla turbine devices: Concept, testing and insights

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  • Kosowski, Krzysztof
  • Piwowarski, Marian
  • Stępień, Robert
  • Włodarski, Wojciech

Abstract

This paper investigates the integration of a bladeless Tesla turbine rotor and an electric machine rotor to create a space-efficient and simplified energy conversion system. Although the Tesla turbine is a well-established concept, the proposed co-axial integration offers a novel approach that lends itself particularly well to micro-scale energy generation and heating of process gases after pressure reduction. The objective of this study is to investigate the integration of a bladeless Tesla turbine rotor with an axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) electric machine, addressing two fundamental research questions: whether a space-efficient, power generation device (approximately 5–15W) can be developed based on this integration, and whether the same principle can be applied to create a gas heater operating during expansion from high pressure (e.g., from 1.2 MPa to ambient pressure). The study includes simulations and experimental tests. Details of the simulation tools, modelling approach and experimental setup are presented and discussed. The results highlight the potential advantages of the integrated system in terms of its space-efficient design and practical application. This concept shows promise for use in small-scale, distributed energy systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Kosowski, Krzysztof & Piwowarski, Marian & Stępień, Robert & Włodarski, Wojciech, 2025. "Innovative Tesla turbine devices: Concept, testing and insights," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 337(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:337:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225043737
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.138731
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    References listed on IDEAS

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