Efficiency Tests on Ludvika Hydropower Station

摘要

The tests showed that in-situ absolute efficiency testing of a small machine, 3500 kW, can be done within reasonable cost and with good accuracy thus may encourage the industry to perform such tests to a larger extent. Efficiency tests were conducted after refurbishment of the hydropower station. Vattenfall Power Consultant performed the tests and the Accusonic method was used for flow measurements on the Kaplan turbine directly coupled to a synchronous generator. Eight (8) paths of ultra-sound beams were used. The same method was used successfully in 1993 on a 750 kW machine with Francis turbine owned by Vasterbergslagens Kraft. It is tempting for suppliers of small hydropower machines to claim higher efficiency than can be obtained in reality as the cost of verification of a small machine is relatively high. At evaluation of bids, efficiency was evaluated as a major factor based on values derived from prognoses on future electricity production prices. The tests were performed as to verify the supplier-claimed efficiency values of the contract. This was to assure that Vasterbergslagens Kraft is awarding contracts only to serious vendors.