Hybridization in Kaplan turbines. Wear and tear assessment

Abstract In the current energy market, hydraulic turbines are increasingly demanded to work in Frequency containment reserve (FCR) mode compensate constant frequency fluctuations electrical grid. To do so, change their generating power continuously which implies regulate flow rate. Kaplan double regulated machines that position of both guide vanes and runner blades rate maximizing efficiency. Therefore, moving when they provide FCR, leading high wear tear regulation system components. Within frame European project XFLEX Hydro, a new technology reduce FRC have been implemented. This consists hybridization unit with battery system. way, is one charge providing part grid, reducing movements turbine. The was successfully installed August 2021 Vogelgrun powerplant, France. Since moment, has working hybrid mode. A monitoring plant two different units, hybridized another without Several sensors were parameters measured simultaneously calculate this paper, comparison between standard (non-hybrid) performed terms mileage servomotors.