75th Anniversary |
Department. Our engineers, geologists and underwater experts develop systems, equipment, methods, and new patents, to keep our leading position. We cooperate with several Institutes of Technology (e.g., TUM, the Technical University of Munich, Ecole Polytechnique de Losanne, Politecnico di Milano) and other research institutes in Europe and the US. We strive to be immediately active in emerging market sectors such as floating solar panels and floating covers.
Above: Underwater installation in flowing water at Kembs, Grand Canal d’Alsace navigation canal
suppliers with whom Carpii has established longstanding relationships. Together we inspect the materials, evaluate their performances, and develop new materials or systems. During the installation process, a specific Quality
Control Plan tailored for each project is followed at each construction phase. All workers undergo training on applicable procedures and associated risks.
Can you discuss any recent partnerships or collaborations that have enhanced Carpi Tech’s capabilities and competitiveness in the hydropower market? Carpi has recently co-operated with a highly reputed engineering firm to study and develop underwater techniques allowing global rehabilitation of hydropower and navigation canals, by restoring the waterproofing and / or mechanical protection functions. The aim was to treat significant areas with solutions having minimum impact on the operation of the hydroelectric plant or on navigation, and with sustainable economic conditions. One of these projects was awarded the 2022 Innovation Award by the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD). Some aspects have been highlighted that are subject of further development or improvement.
In what ways does Carpi Tech prioritize safety and quality assurance in its current projects, and how are these aspects integrated into project planning and execution? ‘Safety first’ is our motto. Based on the installation method and on the project features, safety risk analysis is documented during project planning. It is a live document which can be modified anytime whenever necessary. A quality assurance plan is also part of the project documentation.
Below: Pinnapuram Pumped Storage Scheme, India
One of our main values is our people. By carefully selecting the right team, providing thorough training, and involving them from the planning phase onward, we ensure the safe and high-quality execution of our projects.
How does Carpi Tech stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in the hydropower industry to maintain its position as a leader in innovation? By keeping in our DNA the foresight and creativity that brought us where we are. We try to anticipate trends, and to be always one step ahead of our potential competitors by designing new technologies via our internal R&D Department and our Underwater
32 | May 2024 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
What innovations or advancements is Carpi Tech planning to introduce in the hydropower industry in the coming years? We intend to continue study and research in the field of pumped storage schemes and of underwater installation in flowing water. The objective is to further simplify/improve design, and also with the aid of new equipment and machines, to devise methods to make installation even quicker and more efficient than at present, to allow maximum safety and earlier commissioning. Hydropower is in itself a sustainable technology. Carpi can contribute to make it grow further and be even more sustainable by providing waterproofing methods that help maintain hydropower plants in safe operation without disruption, and by preserving water. In new construction we offer solutions that allow storing higher volumes of water, are constructed more quickly, are durable, environmentally friendly with a carbon footprint four times less than that of concrete linings, and require no maintenance.
Does Carpi Tech plan to leverage digitalization and data analytics to optimize performance and efficiency in upcoming hydropower ventures?
Carpi considers digitalization and data analytics as a key part of our business now and in the future. We look for optimisation in every department from sales and business development all the way through to site installation and project hand over. For example, we use some of the most modern
software to trace and track projects from initial conception through to award. During execution our installation teams use the most modern welding equipment with WiFi & GPS compatibility that can record and log all the welding parameters and ensure compliance with quality protocols in every corner of the world.
In what ways is Carpi Tech preparing its workforce for the demands of tomorrow’s hydropower industry through training, upskilling, and talent development programs? Our worldwide presence continuously requires training and upskilling of our workforce in the countries where we have large projects in sight. Discovering and developing talents is favoured by the relatively small size of each of our companies, and by the wide range of expertise available in our headquarters and poles where, in addition to internal webinars, knowledge is passed from older to younger colleagues, and different tools and information are made available, in a continuous process of professional upskilling. All Carpi employees attend a minimum of one training course a year on specific subjects.
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