Hydroalp has successfully completed non-destructive testing on a Francis runner destined for a hydropower plant in the province of Frosinone, Italy.

NDT (Non-destructive testing) on Francis runners, which are crucial components of hydraulic turbines, is essential to ensure their structural integrity and functionality, and help maintain high standards in hydroelectric power generation.

These tests identify defects such as cracks, corrosion, inclusions, and other discontinuities that could affect the runner’s performance.

• Magnetometry is used to survey metallic materials embedded in non-ferromagnetic materials like concrete. This method is based on magnetic induction, where a magnetic field is used to induce a magnetic response in the metallic material.
• Liquid Penetrant Testing is a straightforward and effective method for identifying surface defects. A penetrating liquid is applied to the runner’s surface and seeps into any cracks. After a waiting period, the excess liquid is removed and a developer is applied, revealing any discontinuities under appropriate lighting (e.g. UV light).

These tests allow thorough inspection and help ensure that refurbished turbines or runners are free from surface defects that could affect their performances, thus enabling Hydroalp to deliver high-quality and high-performance solutions.

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