Sector-specific

Dams and hydraulic structures. Hydropower stations and small hydropower stations

Energy 65 hours

Introduction

The course Dams and Hydraulic Structures. Hydropower Stations and Small Hydropower Stations comes at a crucial time for the energy sector, when sustainability and efficiency are more essential than ever. The hydroelectric power, because of its ability to generate electricity in a clean and renewable, stands as a cornerstone of the global energy transition. Taking part in this course will enable you to gain an understanding of hydroelectric power generation, from theoretical foundations including legal and economic aspects. With a growing demand for qualified professionals in this field, this course offers an unrivalled opportunity to specialise in a booming sector. You will learn about the management and maintenance of dams, hydraulic circuits and the equipment required for the power stations to operate at their best. As the world seeks sustainable solutions, the training you’ll receive on this course will place you at the forefront of technological innovation and sustainable development.

Objectives

The overall aim of the course is to train students in the various technical and management disciplines required throughout the phases of design, construction, maintenance and oroperation of the various electricity generation facilities. A detailed study is carried out of current and future technologies for the various generation systems, both for the design and implementation of the project and for the operation and maintenance of hydroelectric and mini-hydro power stations.

Table of Contents

TEACHING UNIT 1. HYDROELECTRIC POWER GENERATION. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

1. Historical development
2. Overview
3. Commitment to sustainability

TEACHING UNIT 2. THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS

1. Power
2. Energy

TEACHING UNIT 3. HYDROLOGY AND REGULATION

1. Introduction
2. The natural behaviour of rivers
3. Issues of interest to hydroelectric power schemes

TEACHING UNIT 4. DAMS

1. Purpose and consequences of the dam
2. Types of dams
3. Calculation requests
4. Characteristic curves
5. Basic structural constraints
6. Intakes, Spillways and Drains
7. Auscultation
8. Classification of Dams and Contingency Plans

TEACHING UNIT 5. TYPES OF HYDROELECTRIC POWER GENERATION

1. Quality of hydroelectric power
2. Fluid jumps
3. Adjustable jumps
4. Reversible pumping stations

TEACHING UNIT 6. SMALL POWER STATIONS

1. Distinctive features of mini-power stations
2. Weirs and intakes
3. Drivers
4. Power stations and grid connection
5. References

TEACHING UNIT 7. HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT

1. Free-form circuits
2. Pressure circuits

TEACHING UNIT 8. POWER STATIONS

1. Site selection
2. The Central building. Geometric definition
3. The Power Station Building – Civil Engineering Works
4. The Power Station Building – Maintenance

TEACHING UNIT 9. MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

1. Introduction
2. Railings
3. Grate cleaner
4. Guides
5. Gates
6. Valves
7. Turbines

TEACHING UNIT 10. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

1. Generator and auxiliary equipment
2. Machine switch
3. Main transformer
4. Substation and power transmission
5. Support services
6. Standard single-line diagrams
7. Key features of conventional pumping
8. Key features of variable-speed pumping

TEACHING UNIT 11. GEOLOGY

1. The uniqueness of the hydraulic structure
2. Types of rock
3. Compressive strength, fracture resistance, excavability and tearability
4. Tunnels
5. Research programmes and trials
6. References

TEACHING UNIT 12. CONSTRUCTION

1. General aspects
2. Civil Engineering

TEACHING UNIT 13. OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

1. Introduction
2. Exploitation
3. Maintenance
4. References

TEACHING UNIT 14. LEGAL ASPECTS, PERMITS, THE MARKET

1. Hydroelectric developments under the Electricity Sector Water Act. Hydroelectric concessions and administrative authorisation
2. Hydropower potential in Spain
3. Hydropower in the electricity system and in the context of sustainability

TEACHING UNIT 15. ECONOMIC ASPECTS

1. Remuneration
2. Operating and maintenance costs
3. Funding
4. Interest accrued in the interim
5. Profitability
6. Comments

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