Hydropower Compression Solutions

Hydropower and pumped storage plants play an important role in renewable power generation, energy storage and grid stability. Reliable auxiliary systems are essential to ensure safe plant operation, high availability and efficient transitions between different operating modes.

High pressure compressed air is used to displace water from turbine and draft tube areas during water depression or turbine blow-out processes. This supports operating modes such as synchronous condenser operation and, depending on the plant design, can also facilitate inspection and maintenance activities.

With more than 80 years of experience in reciprocating high pressure compressor technology, LMF develops tailor-made oil-free compressor solutions for hydropower and pumped storage applications. Every solution is individually engineered according to the required pressure and capacity, plant configuration, operating profile and installation constraints.

Recommended Compression Solutions by LMF

Trunk-type Compressors

Recommended solution for hydropower and pumped storage applications requiring a compact footprint, high discharge pressures and reliable oil-free compressed air.

Air-cooled designs eliminate the need for an external cooling water supply and related water treatment, simplifying integration and reducing maintenance requirements.

  • Capacity:
    up to 340 Nm³/h
  • Pressure:
    up to 420 bar
  • Power consumption:
    up to 130 kW

Selected References 

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FAQs

High pressure compressed air is used to displace water from turbine runner and draft tube areas. Depending on the plant design, this enables operating modes such as synchronous condenser operation and supports transitions between different plant operating conditions.

Compressed air can also be required for other auxiliary, inspection and maintenance processes within the plant.

During water turbine blow-out or water depression, compressed air is introduced into the relevant turbine or draft tube area to lower the water level and create an air-filled space around the turbine runner.

The precise process and required air pressure and capacity depend on the turbine design, hydraulic head and intended operating mode.

Oil-free compression eliminates cylinder oil lubrication and prevents oil from entering the compression chamber. This reduces the risk of oil contamination where compressed air comes into contact with plant components or water.

The appropriate oil-free compressor configuration is selected according to the air quality requirements and complete plant design.

Trunk-type reciprocating compressors combine a compact footprint with high discharge pressures and robust long-term operation. They can be engineered for oil-free compression and supplied as air-cooled units, making them suitable for hydropower plants with limited installation space or without an external cooling water supply.

Yes. Every LMF compressor solution is individually engineered according to the required pressure and capacity, turbine configuration, operating profile, installation constraints and project-specific requirements.

This tailor-made approach ensures that the compressor and complete package are matched to the specific hydropower or pumped storage application.