Hydro-Electric Series

The objective of this course is to examine, from the operational point of view, the various items of electrical equipment that are commonly installed in the hydro-electric power plant. The course covers switch yard equipment, station service supply, DC power supply, and uninterpretable AC power supply. Safety of personnel and equipment is also discussed.

Upon completion of this course, you shall have an understanding of the following concepts:

• Reading one-line diagrams and schematics
• Generator circuit breaker arrangements:
  • At generator voltage
  • On the high voltage side of the directly connected generator step-up transformer
  • Features of transformers including:
  • Terminal connections
  • Grounding
  • Cooling arrangements
  • Transformer protection devices
  • The significance of transformer gassing
  • Nitrogen sealing
• The function and characteristics of switch yard equipment including:
  • Disconnects
  • Grounding Disconnects
  • Lightning Arresters
  • Potential Transformers – PTs
• The function and characteristics of switch yard equipment including
• The application of high voltage cables
• The function of circuit breakers including arc extinction by oil, air blast, SF6, vacuum, and blowout coils
• The function of the switch yard bus
• Bus arrangements
• Station service supply
• Black start capability
• Plant auxiliary power board layout
• Auxiliary power for remote locations, i.e. spillway and control structures
• Circuit breakers and motor contractors for operation of plant auxiliaries
• The characteristics of breakers and contractors on loss of power supply, i.e. to remain closed or to open
• The application of DC power for emergency lighting, emergency equipment, control, alarm and protection circuits
• DC power supply sources
• Critical AC circuits, including communications, computer equipment, protection and control circuits
• The provision of uninterpretable AC for critical circuits
• The importance of equipment safety and personal safety in connection with high voltage electrical equipment
• The application of operating procedures to avoid equipment damage due to faulty operation
• The application of clearance procedures to ensure personnel safety when performing maintenance
• The responsibility of each individual to ensure his own personal safety when working around electrical equipment in the plant