*
**
Persian wheel is an indigenous water lift used extensively in the different farts of India. But the scientific studies based on which improvement in its design can be incorporated had been lacking. An attempt has been made in this paper, to analyse the power input to the system, based on which the losses may be reduced and efficiency of system improved.
An original bullock driven Persian Wheel was provided with a mechanism to operate it with elastic power drive, to ensure a constant speed with time and make accurate measurement of power. A suitable reduction gear system made it possible to operate the Persian Wheel at six different speeds and study their effect on power consumption at varying heads. The power loss in the motor, the transmission system, bearings, and the useful water power were found separately for six different speeds at different heads. A suitable projection ratio and speed of the chain, so as to give maximum efficiency were determined.
