Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the maximum capacity of the Powerbase Platform?
A. The Powerbase Platform is primarily designed to operate hydro turbines with a capacity of 20MW or less.
Q. Why 20MW stations?
A. To keep medium/micro hydro power costs low, the Powerbase Platform provides a low cost solution for both retrofit and new power stations. Larger units often require additional I/O and protective functions beyond the current scope of the Powerbase Platform.
Q. Do I need any expensive PLC controllers?
A. No. The Powerbase Platform is pre-coded with all the necessary control logic to operate any single or double regulated, induction or synchronous turbine/generator set. The commissioning setup can be accomplished in a short period of time.
Q. What about "extra" I/O which are not part of the Powerbase Platform?
A. The Turbine Control Module is pre-loaded with sufficient I/O for most applications. Extra I/O functions can be handled with the Powerbase Expansion Module. To program the Expansion Module, the user only needs to type some basic English language sentences.
Q. How do I program the system?
A. The Powerbase Platform is programmed with the Powerbase Setup Guide software. This software allows the user to enter system parameters for each function of a particular Powerbase Module. The user enters the desired parameters and the information is downloaded and saved into the various Powerbase Modules. The Setup Guide uses an expert system to prevent the user from inadvertently entering an incorrect system parameter.
Q. What is the Turbine Control Module?
A. The Turbine Control Module (TCM) is the Powerbase Platform hardware designed to regulate the functions of the turbine. The TCM-"30" designation indicates pulsed hydraulic power unit control for wicket gate and runner blades. The TCM-"40" designation includes "PID governor control" for up to 6 hydraulic outputs (single wheel Francis/Kaplan/maximum 6 jet Pelton turbine) plus the dump/ESD valve.
Both Modules contain sufficient I/O and start/stop control software for virtually any turbine/generator set.
Q. What is the Generator Protection Unit?
A. The Generator Protection Module (GPM-40) provides full generator, differential, ground and other high speed protection relaying functions. The GPM-40 meets protective functions of IEEE Std 37.102-1995 and environmental testing to IEC requirements.
Q. What about SCADA?
A. The Powerbase Platform offers a Windows based SCADA. It provides a local RS-232 connection to the Powerbase Modules. The SCADA provides real time control to up to 8 turbine/generator sets and includes MS Access data logging capabilities.
Q. I need remote access!
A. The local PC is the server computer. Remote access can be accomplished with IP, LAN connection or remote dial up. Furthermore, the Automatic Telephone Dialer (ATD-20) offers voice mail messaging for system trip conditions. Outbound calls can be directed to both land line phones, cell phones and pagers. Inbound calls to the ATD allow the user to query the system status for selected real time data.
Q. I already have a SCADA.
A. The Powerbase Platform server computer software includes an industry standard DNP 3.0 serial communications link that allows communications between a third party (existing) SCADA systems and the Powerbase Platform Modules.
Q. How do I know which components to order?
A. Our engineering staff can assist you with system designs and protection studies. We also install switchgear/control cabinets as well as offer commissioning services.