Work

The Tesla Turbine—Design, Simulations, Testing and Proposed Applications: A Technological Review

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This article offers a comprehensive technical and mechanical review of the Tesla turbine, an innovative device conceived by Nikola Tesla. The core research question guiding this review is: How can the design and application of the Tesla turbine be optimized to overcome its current efficiency limitations and unlock its full potential across various energy recovery technologies? The analysis focuses on the mechanical design of the turbine, illustrating the configuration of co-axial discs without blades mounted on a central shaft, and on the fluid dynamic phenomena that generate torque through the viscous boundary layer between the discs. Mathematical models based on the equations of viscous motion and CFD simulations are used to evaluate mechanical and fluid-dynamic losses, such as viscous friction, edge losses, and inlet duct losses. The work describes mechanical engineering challenges related to efficiency and performance, highlighting optimization techniques for the number and spacing of the discs, nozzle geometry, and thermal management to mitigate the risk of overheating. Finally, potential application areas in microturbine technology for low-enthalpy thermal cycles and energy recovery are examined. The article makes a significant contribution to applied mechanical engineering, offering design guidelines and an updated overview of the challenges and opportunities of Tesla turbine technology.

Source: Eng—Advances in Engineering

DOI: 10.3390/eng7010030

Authors: Roberto Capata, Alfonso Calabria

Institutions: Mercatorum University, Università degli Studi eCampus

Language: English

Topic: Turbomachinery Performance and Optimization

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,448