Feature: System Design


Maintenance vs refurbishment


Maintenance choices for generator excitation systems in the modern day By Douglas Cope, director at Excitation Engineering Services Ltd


W


ith the average age of power stations in the UK approaching 45 years old, there is an


increasing need for stations to modernise. Maintaining and refurbishing generator excitation systems in power plants is critical for reliability and availability. Here, Douglas Cope, director at excitation


control specialist Excitation Engineering Services Ltd, explores the use of proactive maintenance and refurbishment strategies and how plant operators can navigate this decision. Maintenance and refurbishment are two


different approaches for ensuring generator excitation systems remain operational. Maintenance focuses on preserving the system’s current state by addressing wear and tear through routine inspections, minor repairs and the replacement of consumables like brushes and capacitors. It ensures that the system runs smoothly without necessarily enhancing its performance or lifespan. Refurbishment, on the other hand, is a


more comprehensive strategy. It focuses on the


replacement or upgrade of key components to restore the system’s functionality and improve its reliability. While maintenance is about sustaining day-to-day operations, refurbishment targets medium to long term reliability by addressing age related issues and


30 November 2024 www.electronicsworld.co.uk


enhancing system efficiency with modern technology.


Comparing strategies A brushless static exciter illustrates the contrast between strategies. Refurbishment


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