Alstom Francis Turbine Ring Gates: from Retrofitting to Commissioning

[摘要] The Ring Gate synchronisation system developed by Alstom is new and patented. It uses hydraulic cylinders connected in pairs by a serial connection. The new hydraulic synchronisation system, when compared to the previous mechanical synchronisation system, has several advantages. It is a compact design; it reduces the number of mechanical components as well as maintenance costs. The new system maintains the Ring Gates robustness. The new approach is an evolution from mechanical to hydraulic synchronization assisted by electronic control. The new synchronization system eliminates several mechanical components that used to add wear and friction and which are usually difficult to adjust during maintenance. Tension chains and sprockets and associated controls are eliminated. Through the position sensors, the redundancy of the ring gate synchronization system makes it predictable and reliable. The electronic control compensates for any variation in operation, for example a leak in the hydraulic system. An emergency closing is possible without the electronic control system due to the stiffness of hydraulic serial connection in the hydraulic cylinder pairs. The Ring Gate can work safely against uneven loads and frictions. The development will be reviewed and its application discussed through commissioning results.

[发布机构] Alstom Renewable Power Canada, 1350 Chemin St-Roch, Sorel-Tracy; QC; J3R 5P9, Canada^1;Alstom Renewable Power France, 82 avenue Leon Blum, Grenoble; 38000, France^2

[关键词] Electronic control systems;Electronic controls;Emergency closing;Hydraulic cylinders;Hydraulic synchronization;Mechanical components;Serial connection;Synchronization systems