Title: Enhancing small hydro automation using distributed micro-controllers and simulation

Authors: Aidan Foss, Yves Grandmaitre, William Kemp

Addresses: ANF Energy Solutions Inc., 4092 McBean Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K0A 2Z0, Canada. ' Powerbase Automation Systems Inc., 150 Rosamond Street, Carleton Place, Ontario, K7C 1V2, Canada. ' Powerbase Automation Systems Inc., 150 Rosamond Street, Carleton Place, Ontario, K7C 1V2, Canada

Abstract: The past ten years has seen significant advances in low-cost micro-controllers, data communications and personal computing. Applying these technologies to small hydro automation, affordable multifunctional distributed processing solutions is now a commercial reality. The ability to reduce costs is facilitated by innovative low-cost simulation tools. The successful application of these technologies to the control and protection of a 2MVA hydro generating unit is described.

Keywords: small hydro; automation; simulation; microcontrollers; distributed processing; governing; SCADA; data buses; personal computing tools; control; multifunctional protection; Francis turbine.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGEI.2005.007075

International Journal of Global Energy Issues, 2005 Vol.24 No.1/2, pp.19 - 28

Published online: 24 May 2005 *

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