Life Extension and Savings through Field Testing and Engineering Analysis of a Draft Tube
August 31, 2021
Stantec hydropower leaders contribute to Hydro Review to analyze draft tubes at a hydropower project and extend life by 40 years
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By David Wanner and Carlos Calderaro
David Wanner, and Carlos Calderaro provide guidance on the identification and management of vibration-related issues in hydropower plants. This particular assessment estimates the fatigue damage of the existing draft tube removable section and the remaining useful life of the structure. The three alternatives analyzed were compared based on a certain assessment criterion—estimated cost, outage duration, outage frequency and life expectancy—to determine the most feasible alternative. Ultimately, the authors settled on a solution that will render reliable and safe operation of the units for another 40 years.
Read the full article in Hydro Review.