Refurbishment | Transformative tools
In this article, Roger Liucci from Microsol Resources discusses how CAD tools are transforming the design, performance, and maintenance of hydropower facilities
AS HYDROPOWER FACILITIES SEEK to enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability, digital twin technology has emerged as a transformative tool. By creating real-time, data-driven virtual replicas of physical assets, operators can monitor system performance, predict maintenance needs, and optimize energy output. These digital models integrate data from IoT (Internet of Things) sensors, historical performance records, and predictive analytics, enabling a proactive approach to plant management. Meanwhile, CAD tools support the creation of robust digital representations during the design and planning phases.
Integration Digital twins are revolutionising hydropower
operations by providing a dynamic, real-time digital representation of physical assets. Built from CAD- based models, these virtual replicas continuously integrate data from sensors, SCADA systems, and historical records to offer a comprehensive view of plant performance. By leveraging digital twins, facilities can be optimised and any potential issues caught before they become problematic.
Preventative maintenance One of the primary advantages of digital twins in
hydropower is their ability to predict and prevent equipment failures. Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms process live data collected from sensors strategically placed throughout facilities to identify potential issues before they result in costly
downtime. This predictive maintenance approach not only extends the lifespan of critical components such as turbines and generators but also minimizes unplanned outages.
Operational optimisation Beyond maintenance, digital twins facilitate real-time
operational adjustments. By simulating different environmental conditions including water inflows, seasonal variations, and grid demands, operators can fine-tune performance for maximum efficiency. These insights enable better water resource management, ensuring optimal power generation while in tandem, prioritizing sustainability and other green initiatives.
Advanced training and planning Additionally, digital twins support workforce training
and operational planning. Immersive simulations allow engineers to test various scenarios, refine emergency response strategies, and enhance overall plant safety. With the integration of AI and cloud computing, these models continue to evolve, providing increasingly accurate and actionable insights.
Real world problem solving The Turlough Hill Hydroelectric Power Station, located
in County Wicklow, Ireland, was constructed in the 1960s and has been a pivotal asset in the region’s energy infrastructure. As the facility approached the end of its original design life, the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) sought innovative solutions to extend
Right: Constructed in 1968, Turlough Hill in Wicklow is Ireland’s only pumped storage power station. In 2019 a digital twin of the facility was developed
30 | April 2025 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
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