Side Stream Intakes for Hydro Power in Scotland

The enlargement of natural catchments by the diversion of streams from adjacent catchments into them has been important in many Scottish hydro-electric power developments. Exclusion of waterborn solids to a degree that depends on the function of the aqueduct being fed has been a major consideration. Reduction of air entrainment has been an associated problem. When trash is prevented from entering an aqueduct, the intake inevitably becomes a trap requiring constant cleaning if it is to continue to function. A number of intake designs, as prepared by the authors' firm during the past decade, are described and particular attention is given to the development of a self-scouring intake with no moving parts. Manual and automatic methods of maintenance are also examined.