HYDROWhy use Powerbase Hydro Products?
It starts with the Powerbase design philosophy.
Our goal has always been to provide best in class control and protection equipment solutions for the hydroelectricity generation market. The Powerbase product line integrates unit protection, control, remote operation and governing in a unique, industry-leading package, unmatched by the competition. This approach provides products and services that optimize performance and minimize the total cost of ownership while providing industry-leading user-friendly set-up, operation and monitoring.
This philosophy is more evident than ever in our fourth generation product line. Collectively, these products offer the following advantages:
- simplest hardware installation in the industry
- user-friendly system parameter programming set-up guide
- exceptionally easy site-specific parameter modification capability
- overall cost savings from hardware rationalization
- unparalleled system versatility
I. UNIT LEVEL PRODUCTS
Powerbase PowerPAC II (PPC) - The PowerPAC II Integrated Protection and Control module is the foundation of the Powerbase Energy Systems hydroelectric control system. This device provides all major functions required for reliable turbine/generator operation in a single package. Available functions include turbine start-up and shutdown sequences, mechanical monitoring and protection, PID governing for multiple control modes, auto synchronization and generator protection.
Incorporating these functions into a single module eliminates connections between discreet devices and provides a single interface for configuration, control and monitoring of the system through the touch screen driven HMI. The result is simplified, cost-effective installation, commissioning and operating procedures.
Powerbase Setup Guide/SCADA Software - The most unique feature of the Powerbase system is the integrated Setup Guide and SCADA software. An industry first, the Setup guide removes the system configuration guesswork.Anextensive list of pre-defined operating modes is provided and the installer simply enters parameters to customize the system to site-specific requirements. The simplicity of this process is unparalleled in the industry and allows for shorter commissioning times, easier testing, faster troubleshooting and facilitates operator training.
If the site requires special control functions, the Set-up Guide can handle these through straightforward English command terminology. Constant reference to step-by-step sequences on code sheets is a thing of the past. Once the Setup Guide parameters are filled in, the integrated SCADA adds or removes specific features and functions to reflect the hardware selected. The SCADA software also includes an exhaustive list of features with graphic display of all operating parameters, trips and sequence of events logging, remote monitoring, optional touch screen operation, simulation modes for governor tuning, remote diagnostics and multi-level password protection. Communication with other ModBus or DNP devices results in a system with maximum flexibility at minimum ownership cost.
Powerbase Hydro Control Cabinet (HCC): - There are several standard cabinet configurations available using common components and layouts. These cabinets can range from strictly fundamental capabilities to full-featured including options such as automatic voltage regulation, multi-zone or backup generator protection and expandable, user-programmable inputs and outputs. All components and options in the cabinet are wired to work together as a unit control system and include industry standard protection test points and terminal block connections for all external field sensors.
Powerbase Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) - The Powerbase Hydraulic Power Unit is a compact system with powerful capabilities. It is configurable for single and double-regulated turbines, with high or low pressure and flow using either soft-shuttle or proportional control valves. A DC backup option is available to allow for black start and islanding as well as emergency backup shutdown capability.
The control and feedback signals in the HPU are all predetermined and programmed to work with the PowerPAC II controller. One key feature of the Powerbase HPU is that two PowerPAC II controllers can interface to one double-regulated HPU to operate two turbines.
II. STATION LEVEL PRODUCTS
Powerbase Station Control - The specific requirements for each station are unique and require flexibility in the design of the station control system. Powerbase uses a state of the art Programmable Logic Controller with enough expandable input and output capability to meet the group control and station monitoring needs of any site.
Powerbase Water Resources Transmitter (WRT): - Powerbase offers a device specifically to interface with up to three water level sensors installed at the station for measurement of the headpond, trash rack and tail race water levels at the site. The water information is made available over an Ethernet connection to the PowerPAC II, Station Control and SCADA systems.
Powerbase Water Level Sensors - Powerbase offers water level sensors for both submersible and dry mount applications. The WLS-10 is a submersible sensor that features stainless steel construction of all wetted parts. It measures static water pressure at a specific depth. The WLS-11 is a dry-mount sensor usually installed into the powerhouse and connected to a dam intake by a capillary hose. Static water pressure is measured at a precise location below the water level at the headpond. In the case of both products, a 4-20 mA analog output signal is sent to the Water Resources Transmitter and converted to a digital signal for distribution to other system components. The data is used to determine whether conditions are suitable for normal operations and to optimize the turbine/generator output by adjusting the wicket gates and/or runner blades positions.
Powerbase Station Protection: - The Powerbase station protection system uses the most recognised multifunction relays in the industry to ensure reliable protection of the critical systems at the powerhouse. All relays selected for the task are seamlessly integrated into the overall Powerbase control system to provide ease of use and proven capability in the field.
Powerbase Station Level SCADA - Station operators need reliable data and control in order to maintain the optimum performance of the generating stations they control. The information they see needs to be clear and concise in order to quickly react to changing conditions. The Powerbase Station Level SCADA provides operators with an intuitive interface where all the information they need is presented clearly, when they need it.
The overall look and feel of the SCADA matches the local HMI to allow personnel to effectively operate either system with the same training. All of the Powerbase products are integrated into the SCADA system to provide a complete picture of the site. The non-proprietary SCADA is open and scalable to allow the addition of site-specific devices during the design/commissioning process or during the inevitable changes that occur in the life of any generating station.
III. SERVICES
Initial Design - The Powerbase design team has years of international experience in new and retrofit hydroelectric projects. Our team works closely with clients and technical representatives to ensure the Powerbase control system meets the site-specific control and protection requirements.
Installation Support - All of the products and systems provided by Powerbase are factory tested to replicate the final configuration at site. Powerbase provides complete system schematics and drawings to permit the client and installation contractors to properly install the system. If requested, Powerbase personnel are available during installation to ensure equipment is properly installed and ready for commissioning.
Commissioning - Powerbase field service personnel have in-depth product knowledge and experience that ensures that site commissioning is handled efficiently. All elements of the system are verified and configured based on the requirements of the site. Personnel have the capability to make changes in the field to adapt to changing or unexpected circumstances.
Product Support - Powerbase products are built to be user-friendly, reliable and trouble-free. The comprehensive Powerbase warranty ensures problems are quickly resolved. An extensive operator training program is available to ensure station staff are able to use the system with the utmost confidence.
