Vibration monitoring of a hydroelectric power generation unit: Improved indicators of rotor health based on orbital analysis

Hydropower generation units (HGUs) are electromechanical systems meant to transform the potential energy of flowing water (i.e., a renewable energy source) into electrical energy. Thanks to their high manoeuvrability and green footprint, nowadays, HGUs are mission-critical assets for grid operators, as the global energy policy is pushing for a more ecological and healthier energy production. Condition monitoring becomes then a fundamental task for fostering safety while optimizing the maintenance regime of such HGUs. In this regard, this work is meant to improve an ISO20816-based vibration monitoring system by proposing further rotor health indicators based on orbital analysis. The proposed improvement is implemented on a real HGU of the Signayes hydroelectric power plant from C.V.A. S.p.A. − Compagnia Valdostana delle Acque − Compagnie Valdôtaine des Eaux.