A COMPREHENSIVE CONDITION MONITORING-SYSTEM FOR HYDROELECTRIC GENERATING-UNITS

The application of Machine Condition Monitoring (MCM) techniques and strategies to hydro-electric generating units is not as commonplace as it should be. The reasons for this situation include the low speed at which hydro-electric generators rotate, the large variety of components and subsystems which must function together, the variety of configurations, sizes and manufacturers which are involved, the ingrained traditional maintenance procedures presently practised, and the lack of knowledge in the industry about what is possible. This paper describes a comprehensive MCM program and suggested system for implementation in hydro-electric generating units. The system addresses all the major subsystems which make up the generating unit. A modular design means that it could be applicable in a wide variety of situations. Different subsystems may be included or excluded from the monitoring system as required. It may be used at individual plants as a stand alone system or network wide. An advanced processing and diagnostic module is included, again for use as an integral part of the system or as a stand alone analysis tool. Examples of the system's proposed data analysis and diagnostic abilities are also described using vibration signals as would be provided by the bearing module.