摘要 |
<p>A hydroelectric turbine for the production of electricity from tidal flow forces, the turbine having a rotor with an open center such that the blades (34) are mounted between an inner rim (32) and outer rim (33), wherein reta ining members (22, 23) and anti-friction members (7, 72) are provided to lim it movement of the rotor relative to the housing (21) in either axial direct ion, such that water flow (99) in either direction operates the turbine, but wherein the retaining members (22, 23) and the anti-friction members (71, 7 2) allow the rotor to shift in either axial direction in response to water f low. The anti-friction members limiting rotor travel in the axial direction are preferably of increased thickness, such that as the anti-friction member s wear down, the rotor is able to shift relative to the housing in the axial direction.</p> |