Overshot wheel meaning

An overshot wheel is a type of water wheel where the water flows over the top of the wheel, leading to increased efficiency in generating power.


Overshot wheel definitions

Word backwards tohsrevo leehw
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "overshot wheel" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division o-ver-shot wheel
Plural The plural of "overshot wheel" is "overshot wheels."
Total letters 13
Vogais (2) o,e
Consonants (7) v,r,s,h,t,w,l

An overshot wheel is a type of water wheel design used to generate power through the force of flowing water. This type of wheel is commonly found in water mills and has been used for centuries to harness the energy of moving water.

Design and Function

The overshot wheel consists of a large wheel with buckets or blades attached around its circumference. The wheel is positioned so that the water flows over the top of the wheel and fills the buckets. The weight of the water in the buckets causes the wheel to turn, converting the energy of the flowing water into rotational motion.

Efficiency and Advantages

The design of the overshot wheel allows it to harness the energy of flowing water more efficiently than other types of water wheels. By positioning the water source above the wheel, gravity helps to drive the wheel, resulting in a more consistent and powerful rotation.

One of the key advantages of the overshot wheel is its ability to operate with a lower flow rate of water compared to other water wheel designs. This makes it ideal for use in areas where water flow may be limited or where a consistent power source is needed.

Historical Significance

Overshot wheels have been used for centuries in various parts of the world to power mills, sawmills, and other industrial processes. They played a crucial role in the development of early industries, providing a reliable source of power for agricultural and manufacturing activities.

Today, overshot wheels are still used in some locations for small-scale hydroelectric power generation and as a way to harness renewable energy. While newer technologies have largely replaced water wheels for large-scale power generation, the overshot wheel remains a symbol of ingenuity and innovation in harnessing the power of nature.


Overshot wheel Examples

  1. The overshot wheel at the historic mill provided power for grinding grain.
  2. The overshot wheel on the farm transferred energy from the flowing water to operate machinery.
  3. The overshot wheel technology improved the efficiency of water-powered mills.
  4. An overshot wheel was used in ancient times to lift water from rivers for irrigation.
  5. The overshot wheel design allowed for a continuous flow of energy from the water source.
  6. A modern overshot wheel harnesses renewable energy from streams to generate electricity.
  7. Engineers are studying the overshot wheel mechanism for sustainable energy solutions.
  8. The overshot wheel revolutionized the way water power was utilized in industrial settings.
  9. Water flowing over the top of the overshot wheel turned it with great force.
  10. The overshot wheel allowed for more precise control of energy transfer compared to other water wheels.


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  • Updated 17/04/2024 - 03:34:27