Improve performance in operating hydropower units
Upgrade equipment, increase efficiency and extend unit life
Braz Hydro develops repowering and modernization solutions for operating hydropower units, focused on efficiency, availability, reliability and alignment with current operating conditions.
Challenges we address
Aging equipment, accumulated wear or difficulty sourcing replacement parts
Efficiency losses, operating limitations or the need for greater availability
The need to extend service life without replacing the entire unit
How we work
Unit assessment
We analyze operating data, maintenance history, inspection findings, component condition and the project's performance objectives.
Options study
We assess modernization or repowering options for Francis, Kaplan or Pelton turbines, considering interfaces, outage requirements, risks and unit constraints.
Engineering and supply
We develop the technical solution, define components and interfaces, and plan manufacturing, inspection, logistics and installation according to the contracted scope.
Implementation and validation
We support installation, alignment, testing and commissioning, documenting results, open items and operating recommendations.
IllustrationIllustrative images — not photographs of a specific plant.
What we need
- Unit power, flow, head, speed and operating regime data
- Drawings, curves, manuals, inspection reports and maintenance history
- Efficiency, availability, reliability and service-life objectives
- Outage constraints, existing interfaces and technical or regulatory requirements
What you receive
- Technical assessment and identified modernization opportunities
- Solution alternatives with assumptions, interfaces and supply scope
- Engineering, documentation and support for manufacturing, installation and commissioning
- Implementation plan, test records and operating recommendations
FAQ
What is hydropower unit repowering?
It is the planned upgrade or replacement of components and systems in an operating unit to improve efficiency, capacity, reliability or availability while extending service life.
Which turbine types does Braz Hydro support?
Braz Hydro can develop solutions for Francis, Kaplan and Pelton turbines, based on the unit's hydraulic, mechanical and operating conditions.
Can only part of the unit be modernized?
Yes. The scope can be defined by component or system, considering the assessment, existing interfaces, outage strategy and operator objectives.