Development of the control and automation system for mini hydro turbines

Abstract

This thesis describes the research, development and design of one of the most modern generic control and automation system for mini Hydro turbines available in the world. Special emphasis is placed on the Man machine interface. A concept of total dynamic plant and data status representation was pursued. To achieve this, a large amount of graphical animation was incorporated into the design. The end product was to be the most economical and cost effective implementable design available , yet providing the most modern functions and features available in the world market. The system was developed and researched to be generic and applicable to any small Hydro plant. The design can thus be implemented on any suitable PLC and SCADA system and is not dependant on any specific manufactures hardware or software. The main emphasis is laid on functional capability of the design. Utilising this design standard would virtually cut the cost of engineering associated with the design of a Hydro control system by 90%. The design and engineering costs related to a Hydro automation project could typically exceed R 100 000 a for small Hydro plant as this scheme.