Experiment No.

9: Undertake the preventive maintenance of the low head micro hydro power
plant.
Apparatus:
1. Safety equipment (helmets, gloves, safety glasses, etc.)
2. Standard toolkit (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)
3. Hydraulic monitoring equipment (flow meters, pressure gauges, etc.)
4. Electrical testing equipment (multimeter, insulation tester, etc.)
5. Lubricants, cleaning materials, and spare parts
6. Inspection checklist tailored for high head hydro power plants
Theory: Undertaking preventive maintenance for a low head micro hydro power plant is
crucial for ensuring its efficient and reliable operation.
Here's a comprehensive outline covering the preventive maintenance:
1. Safety Precautions: Ensure all personnel adhere to safety protocols and wear appropriate
safety gear. Implement lockout/tagout procedures to isolate equipment before
maintenance.
2. Visual Inspection: Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the power plant, paying close
attention to the intake structure, penstock, turbine, generator, and control systems. Look
for signs of sedimentation, erosion, corrosion, leaks, and other abnormalities.
3. Hydraulic Assessment: Monitor flow rates, pressure levels, and water quality to evaluate
hydraulic performance. Check for sediment buildup, blockages, or inefficiencies in the
water conveyance system and address them promptly.
4. Erosion Control: Apply protective coatings or liners to vulnerable surfaces exposed to
low-velocity water flow to mitigate erosion and extend the lifespan of hydraulic
components.
5. Sediment Management: Implement strategies to prevent sediment buildup in intake
structures, penstocks, and turbines, which can impede flow and decrease efficiency.
Regularly remove accumulated sediment using appropriate tools and techniques.
6. Turbine Inspection and Maintenance: Inspect turbine blades, runner, shaft, and bearings
for wear, damage, or debris accumulation. Clean and lubricate components as necessary
to ensure smooth operation and optimal efficiency.
7. Electrical Testing: Perform electrical tests, including voltage, current, and insulation
resistance measurements, to assess the integrity of wiring, connections, and electrical
components. Address any issues to prevent electrical faults or malfunctions.
8. Control System Verification: Verify the functionality of control and monitoring systems,
including sensors, actuators, relays, and PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers). Test
automatic shutdown mechanisms and emergency protocols to ensure safety and reliability.
 9. Documentation: Record all maintenance activities, observations, measurements, and
corrective actions in a detailed logbook. Document the condition of components, any
repairs or replacements performed, and recommendations for future maintenance.
Conclusion:
Preventive maintenance is essential for the reliable and efficient operation of a low head
micro hydro power plant. Regular preventive maintenance is a proactive investment that
ensures the long-term viability and profitability of the power plant.