Refurbishment and uprating of hydro generators

Economic considerations predominantly determine the refurbishment and/or uprating of hydro-electric generators. Many years experience within GEC Large Machines Ltd. indicates that only some 30% of hydro power station kilowatt loss capitalisation arises from the electromechanical equipment. The electrical machine is responsible for about half that; consequently generator refurbishment is generally well worthwhile. The author discusses the ecological and social considerations and the need for a review of the design of hydro plants. The author then discusses the needs for refurbishment of hydro plants, design modifications, condition monitoring, stator core tests, and the El Cid test technique