Hydroelectric Power Plant Maintenance from Asumb Gugler: Service, Training, and Decades of Reliability


Asumb Gugler's hydroelectric power plant maintenance and operation are organized according to international standards to ensure long equipment life, minimize accidents, and enhance personnel qualifications.

  • The maintenance regime depends on the turbine type and the equipment installed, but for new/automated Gugler hydroelectric power plants the classic scheme is adopted:
  • Major inspection repairs– once every 3–5 years, depending on operating conditions and supplier requirements.
  • Once a year– comprehensive service maintenance with detailed vibration and thermograms, testing of emergency and backup systems, replacement of quickly wearing parts.
  • Quarterly– diagnostics of the turbine and generator condition, cleaning of filters, lubrication of bearings.
  • Once a month– preventive maintenance of power cabinets, vacuum systems, and seals.
  • Daily inspection of units, remote control of parameters via SCADA/local control panel.

Staff training

  • Gugler offers customized and standard training programs for operators, technologists, and maintenance personnel:
    • Training in operating automation, commissioning, and emergency modes is mandatory before being allowed to operate.
    • Qualifications are updated at least once a year: theoretical classes, training on simulators, knowledge assessment, internships on working equipment.
    • Emergency drills (on labor safety, accident prevention, evacuation) – at least once a year, with mandatory instructions for shift workers.
  • The equipment delivery package may include on-site training for personnel by the manufacturer, online courses, and manuals in Russian/English.

Features of the Asumb Gugler hydroelectric power station

  • The equipment is designed for high automation, with most control and diagnostic operations being transferred to a control panel or the cloud.
  • A service agreement may include regular remote diagnostics by Gugler engineers and scheduled service visits.
  • If the factory's service and training requirements are followed, the equipment can operate for 30–50+ years without serious failures or loss of efficiency.

Asumb Gugler ensures the reliable operation of its hydroelectric power plants through strict adherence to maintenance regulations, operator support, and regular training. This enables automation, reduces human error, and simplifies control for owners and engineers.

Abzal Turlin
Abzal Turlin
I, Abzal Turlin, founded AsumB with a clear goal - to promote clean, affordable and efficient energy in Kazakhstan, Central Asia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan.
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01
The Akavreta-Lodnari hydroelectric power station is located on a watercourse with a stable seasonal flow

The Akavreta-Lodnari hydroelectric power station is located on a watercourse with a stable seasonal flow

The Akavreta-Lodnari HPP is located on a watercourse with a stable seasonal flow rate and a favorable slope, ensuring high pressure utilization. Both units are housed in a single building, which reduces capital expenditures for construction, maintenance, and operation of the plant. The project includes: Installation of two Francis/Pelton turbines (depending on the specified pressure), a steel pressure pipeline with optimized pressure losses, modern generators, automation and telemetry systems. The expected average annual output is 69.4 million kWh, which ensures stable generation and predictable cash flow. Proposal formula (investment submission) We offer: Design Coordination Equipment supply (Europe / Turkey / Korea - according to the budget and investor requirements) Construction and installation Commissioning and commissioning Financing and co-investment, if necessary Turnkey implementation or partnership with an investor is possible.
Number of devices : 2
Total power (kW) 120013
Static pressure (m) 160
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 1.78
Impeller diameter (mm)
02
Project cascade mini-hydroelectric power station on the river Arym

Project cascade mini-hydroelectric power station on the river Arym

Project objective: to construct a cascade of mini-hydroelectric power plants on the Arym River to generate clean electricity and sell it at a "green tariff." 🌊 1. General concept: The Arym River has a natural elevation difference, making it ideal for a cascade of mini-hydroelectric power plants. The hydrological regime is snow-glacial: the maximum flow rate is up to 7 m³/s during the melting period, and the minimum is about 1.3 m³/s in winter. A single pressure penstock with a diameter of 1400 mm and a flow velocity of approximately 3 m/s is used, providing an average annual operating flow rate of 4.62 m³/s. ⚙️ 2. Cascade structure: The cascade consists of four stages, each with its own pressure head and diversion length. The effective total head of the cascade is ≈1065 m, with total losses of only 38.9 m. No. Name Effective head, m Capacity, MW 1 Arym-1 ≈254 ≈11.0 2 Arym-2 ≈224 ≈9.6 3 Arym-3 ≈195 ≈8.4 4 Arym-4 ≈392 ≈11.7 Total: ≈40.7 MW ⚡ 3. Energy potential The total installed capacity of the cascade is about 40.7 MW. Turbine equipment has an efficiency of up to 85%, which guarantees high efficiency and stable generation. 💰 4. Investment attractiveness The project belongs to the category of highly profitable renewable energy facilities. At a tariff of 4.42 soms/kWh, the expected annual revenue provides a payback period of 4.5 to 6 years. Advantages: minimal construction risks; simple installation of a single 1400 mm diameter string; reduced capital expenditures on metal structures and supports; scalability (a second string for increased capacity). 🏗️ 5. Conclusion: The cascade option on the Arym River is a technically feasible and economically feasible project, ensuring stable power generation, a rapid return on investment, and long-term operational reliability. The project is ready for further design, approval, and investment.
Number of devices : 8
Total power (kW) 40 MW
Static pressure (m) 1065
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 3
Impeller diameter (mm) 1400
03
Hydroelectric power station for sale in Zukhzidi, Georgia.

Hydroelectric power station for sale in Zukhzidi, Georgia.

We offer for sale three ready-to-use mini-hydropower plants with a total installed capacity of 1.96 MW to 5 MW, as well as land plots for construction and expansion to 5 MW. All facilities are technically ready and economically attractive to investors. Hydropower Plant 1 - 1.96 MW (operating) Average annual output: 8.54 GWh Number of units: 1 Status: In operation since 2023 Total project cost: USD 5,800,000 Projected payback: Thanks to a stable tariff and reliable equipment, the project provides a sustainable income. HPP 2 — 3.3 MW (under development) Average annual output: 9.04 GWh Number of units: 2 Construction status: in progress (planned completion — 2026) Investment value of the site and equipment: USD 4,400,000 Potential for increasing capacity with additional modules and upgrading the installed equipment. HPP 3 — 5 MW project (at the design stage) Estimated average annual output: 21 GWh Projected status: development stage Possibility of scaling and integration into grid solutions Attractive site with high hydrological efficiency, ready for construction Technical and economic justification at the final stage Investment advantages: Finished facilities with confirmed parameters Possibility of increasing capacity and scaling projects Support at all stages of the transaction: from the purchase of a ready-made asset to arranging financing High profitability against the background of current tariffs for the purchase of electricity Environmental and social effect — use of renewable energy
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 2 MW / 3 MW / 5 MW
Static pressure (m) 1065
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 7.9
Impeller diameter (mm) 1755
04
Haut Bens Hydroelectric Power Station, France – 2020

Haut Bens Hydroelectric Power Station, France – 2020

High-Head Hydroelectric Power Plant with a Pelton Turbine for Mountain Conditions In 2020, our company supplied equipment for the Haut Bens hydroelectric power plant in France. The plant is located on a high-pressure mountain stream, which requires maximum reliability and precision in the turbine complex. Scope of supply: Pelton Turbine, Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU), Synchronous Generator. The Pelton turbine is an optimal solution for extremely high heads and relatively low flows, ensuring stable efficiency and a long service life. Project Specifications: Number of units: 1 Installed capacity: 1,805 kW Static head: 255.7 m Design flow rate: 0.8 m³/s Runner diameter: 645 mm Engineering Result: The high-head configuration with a Pelton turbine efficiently converts the energy of a narrow but powerful mountain stream into stable electrical generation. Precision hydraulics and a modern control system ensure precise jet control, minimal vibration, and a long equipment lifespan. The Haut Bens project has become a model for a compact, efficient, and reliable solution for high-altitude hydropower projects in France.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 1850
Static pressure (m) 255.7
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 0.8
Impeller diameter (mm) 645
05
Obuse Hydroelectric Power Station, Japan – 2018

Obuse Hydroelectric Power Station, Japan – 2018

A modern small hydropower plant for the mountainous Nagano region. In 2018, our company supplied a complete equipment package for the Obuse project in Japan. The facility is located in Nagano Prefecture, known for its challenging mountainous terrain, seasonal fluctuations in water flow, and stringent seismic safety requirements. The project became an example of adapting European hydraulic engineering solutions to Japanese reliability and control standards. The scope of supply included: Hydroturbine unit (the type of supply depends on the Obuse project's watercourse characteristics), Synchronous generator, Control system and power equipment, Hydraulic power unit (HPU), Inlet shutoff valves. The package was adapted to local requirements for safety, automation, and remote control access. Technical parameters of the facility (Please provide them if you wish – I can add actual data if you send them.) Number of units: 1 Capacity: TBA Static head: TBA Flow rate: TBA Impeller diameter: TBA Engineering result: The Obuse project demonstrates a compact approach to small hydropower, combining high automation, stable generation, and minimal maintenance requirements. The use of European equipment ensures high efficiency and reliable operation under conditions of significant seasonal fluctuations in water flow.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 196
Static pressure (m) 14/4
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 1/5
Impeller diameter (mm) 620
06
La Yeguadita Hydroelectric Power Station, Panama – 2018

La Yeguadita Hydroelectric Power Station, Panama – 2018

The La Yeguadita project in Panama exemplifies the implementation of modern small hydropower in challenging terrain and demanding reliability. The project included the delivery and integration of a complete process line: turbine, generator, hydraulic power station, control system, SCADA, medium-voltage equipment, and a power transformer. This comprehensive solution ensured stable and efficient power generation throughout the entire operational period. Plant parameters: Number of units: 1 Installed capacity: 886 kW Static head: 48.6 m Design water flow: 2.0 m³/s Runner diameter: 570 mm The plant is equipped with a modern automated control and remote monitoring system, which improves control accuracy, minimizes equipment downtime, and ensures high plant availability.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 886
Static pressure (m) 48
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 2
Impeller diameter (mm) 570
07
Bodorna Hydroelectric Power Station, Georgia – 2018

Bodorna Hydroelectric Power Station, Georgia – 2018

The Bodorna hydropower project in Georgia was implemented using a full package of equipment, ensuring high reliability and uninterrupted operation of the plant at high flow rates. The supply included a turbine, generator, hydraulic power station, control system, SCADA, medium-voltage equipment, and a power transformer. The plant is also equipped with a diesel generator for independent start-up and backup power supply, which is especially important for facilities with high loads and unstable external grids. Plant parameters: Number of units: 1 Installed capacity: 2,556 kW Static head: 8.1 m Design water flow: 32.0 m³/s Impeller diameter: 2,240 mm The plant is designed to operate at low heads and very high flow rates, making it an effective solution for rivers with wide channels and strong flow regimes. Full automation and a SCADA system ensure real-time parameter monitoring and high generation quality.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 2556
Static pressure (m) 81
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 32
Impeller diameter (mm) 2240
08
ASUMB Clywedog, UK – 2017

ASUMB Clywedog, UK – 2017

The Clywedog project in the UK utilizes a Kaplan tubular turbine, optimized for low-head operation with stable water flows. The equipment supplied included the turbine, generator, vacuum pump, hydraulic power unit, and control system. This combination ensures high efficiency, stable operation, and precise control of the hydroelectric unit, even under variable river conditions. Plant parameters: Number of units: 1 Installed capacity: 108 kW Static head: 6.0 m Design flow rate: 2.0 m³/s Runner diameter: 630 mm The automated control system ensures load optimization and stable operation, which is especially important for small hydroelectric power plants integrated into existing water management infrastructure.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 108
Static pressure (m) 6
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 2
Impeller diameter (mm) 630
09
ASUMB Cutzán, Guatemala – 2017

ASUMB Cutzán, Guatemala – 2017

The Cutzán hydroelectric dam project utilized a high-head Pelton turbine—an optimal solution for regions with large elevation differences and limited water flow. The supply included a turbine, butterfly valve, hydraulic power station, generator, a set of power electrical cabinets, a control and protection system, and a SCADA system for remote monitoring and diagnostics. This equipment package ensures high efficiency, precise jet control, and stable generation at heads exceeding 160 meters. The SCADA system provides 24/7 monitoring of parameters, prompt detection of deviations, and ease of operation in remote areas. Station parameters: Number of units: 1 Installed capacity: 2,551 kW Static head: 160.2 m Estimated water flow: 1.8 m³/s Impeller diameter: 850 mm The project demonstrates the advantages of the Pelton turbine in high-pressure conditions - high energy output, reliability and a long, trouble-free service life with minimal operating costs.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 2551
Static pressure (m) 160.2
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 1.8
Impeller diameter (mm) 850
10
Giorlandina Hydroelectric Power Station, Italy – 2017

Giorlandina Hydroelectric Power Station, Italy – 2017

The Giorlandina hydroelectric project is built on a low-head section and is equipped with two Kaplan turbines, specifically designed for operation at low heads and high flow rates. The supply package included the Kaplan turbines, generator design, and a hydraulic power plant. The 2,100 mm diameter Kaplan turbines provide high efficiency at heads of just 2.2 meters, making the design ideal for lowland rivers, lock canals, and urban hydraulic structures. A flexible blade adjustment system maintains stable generation even with significant fluctuations in water levels and flow rates. The installation of two units gives the plant additional versatility: during partial loads or seasonal fluctuations in water flow, one unit can be used as a backup without losing baseload power. Plant parameters: Number of units: 2 Installed capacity: 516 kW Static head: 2.2 m Design water flow: 16.0 m³/s Runner diameter: 2,100 mm The Giorlandina project demonstrates the effectiveness of Kaplan turbines in low-pressure areas: high flexibility, stable operation at high flow rates and minimal construction requirements.
Number of devices : 2
Total power (kW) 516
Static pressure (m) 2.2
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 16
Impeller diameter (mm) 2100
11
ASUMB HPP Vordergössgraben Hydroelectric Power Station, Austria

ASUMB HPP Vordergössgraben Hydroelectric Power Station, Austria

The Vordergössgraben project, located in a high-pressure mountain area in Austria, is equipped with a single Pelton turbine, ideal for large elevation changes and limited water flow. The supply package included a Pelton turbine, generator, inlet gate, hydraulic power unit (HPU), and a bifurcation pipe, ensuring proper flow distribution within the turbine tract. The 901 mm diameter Pelton turbine operates at a head of 91.5 m, maximizing the kinetic energy of the water flow. Precise nozzle operation and a stable hydraulic system ensure high energy efficiency and minimal wear, even with seasonal flow fluctuations. The project features a compact design, reliable automation, and a high level of safety, which is particularly important for remote mountainous areas. Station parameters: Number of units: 1 Installed capacity: 1,405 kW Static head: 91.5 m Estimated water flow: 1.7 m³/s Runner diameter: 901 mm The Vordergössgraben project demonstrates the advantages of using a Pelton turbine in mountain conditions: high power at low flow, stable operation and minimal operating costs.
Number of devices : 1
Total power (kW) 1405
Static pressure (m) 91.5
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 1.7
Impeller diameter (mm) 901
12
ASUMB Hydropower Station Rugezi, Rwanda — 2016

ASUMB Hydropower Station Rugezi, Rwanda — 2016

The Rugezi hydropower project is equipped with two high-head Francis turbines, designed to operate at high heads and relatively low flow rates. The delivery included the Francis turbines, butterfly valves, hydraulic power units (HPUs), generators, a control system, and a SCADA platform for remote monitoring and diagnostics. The 425-mm-diameter Francis turbines are ideally suited to the local hydrotopography: a high head of 135 meters provides sufficient kinetic energy for stable generation, and the runner design allows for efficient use of the resource even with seasonal fluctuations in water levels. An integrated SCADA system provides full control of each unit, including automatic synchronization, load regulation, fault protection, and real-time parameter analysis—a critical aspect for remote areas of Rwanda. Plant parameters: Number of units: 2 Installed capacity: 2,756 kW Static head: 135.0 m Design water flow: 1.2 m³/s Runner diameter: 425 mm The Rugezi project demonstrates the effectiveness of high-head Francis turbines in the highlands of Africa: high energy efficiency, reliability, automation and minimal operating requirements.
Number of devices : 2
Total power (kW) 2756
Static pressure (m) 135
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 1.2
Impeller diameter (mm) 425
13
Supply of Kaplan turbines ASUMB United Kingdom

Supply of Kaplan turbines ASUMB United Kingdom

In 2016, ASUMB successfully delivered a hydropower project in Knottingley, UK, providing a full range of equipment for the small hydropower plant. The project was designed to utilize low heads and high flow rates, making it ideal for Kaplan turbines. The scope of supply included: 2 Kaplan turbines Generators Hydraulic Power Units (HPUs) Control system Electrical equipment Technical specifications of the facility: Number of units: 2 Installed capacity: 660 kW Static head: 2.6 m Water flow: 14.1 m³/s Runner diameter: 1,850 mm The Knottingley project demonstrates the high efficiency of ASUMB Kaplan turbines in low-head applications and highlights the reliability of Austrian equipment for year-round operation.
Number of devices : 2
Total power (kW) 660
Static pressure (m) 2.6
Estimated flow rate (m3/s) 14.1
Impeller diameter (mm) 1850
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