Bartley Turbine

Bartley Turbine. . In the late 19th century, cast iron turbines began to replace more picturesque water wheels. Turbines were less susceptible to freezing and did not require the costly construction and endless repairs associated with wooden water wheels. A turbine provided more power with greater efficiency, took up less space and used simpler gearing than a wooden water wheel. This turbione works by directing a flow of water into a closed turbine case. To escape, the water must pass through adjustable, angled gates and turn a central rotor. The rotor turns an iron shaft that transmits power to the mill's machinery. In the 1970s when the mill was restored, the turbine was moved and placed on display. To put the mill back into working order, the turbine was replaced by a 6.35 ton steel Fitz overshot water wheel. This turbine was manufactured by William Bartley and Sons, Foundry and Machine Shop in nearby Bartleyville, New Jersey. (Below) Their patented gearing arrangement allowed the turbine rotor gates to be adjusted for maximim running efficiency. (Right) A wooden penstock brought water from the headrace to the turbine. The water turned a rotor inside the metal turbine housing. A shaft extending from the top of the turbine turned belts that powered the mill's machinery.