Filling the Gap: An Innovative Wicket Gate Repair

摘要

Personnel at the 380 MW Safe Harbor hydroelectric plant discovered a gap between a wicket gate stem and bearing surface in one unit. To temporarily repair the unit, personnel inserted pieces of steel pipe in the gap and welded them in place. The repair functioned successfully during high spring flows. Safe Harbor Water Power Corp is now working to determine whether to rehabilitate the unit or install a new runner. Unit 5 at Safe Harbor has been operating since 1934. In 2006, personnel at Safe Harbor conducted a routine annual inspection of this unit. The success of this repair to Unit 5 has allowed the company to prioritize repairs required for several units.