HYDROMATRIX and StrafloMatrix: modular turbine-generator units for heads of 2-20 m
HYDROMATRIX and StrafloMatrix are modular low-head turbine-generator units for heads of 2-20 m, built into existing dams, spillways, canals and locks. No new hydraulic structures are needed, so the plant costs noticeably less and has minimal environmental impact.
- Head
- 2-20 m (typically about 5 m)
- Flow per unit
- 5-12 m³/s
- Unit output (references)
- 270-1 003 kW; StrafloMatrix 625-700 kW
- Runner diameter
- 1 120 and 1 320 mm
Price, availability and lead time on request. We help with analogue selection, customs clearance and delivery.
Description
The HYDROMATRIX concept was proposed by an American engineer in 1983, and the manufacturer brought it to a series product. Many small propeller turbine-generator (TG) units are grouped into modules and installed in existing dams, spillways, intake towers, irrigation dams, canals and unused navigation locks. The modules are assembled and tested at the factory, so installation and commissioning take less time. During a flood the modules are lifted out of the water passage with the same crane used to install them, and they are removed for maintenance in the same way.
A HYDROMATRIX TG unit combines an axial propeller turbine with a bulb-type generator. The design has grown from proven turbines and generators, and the generator rotor has permanent magnets. Roller bearings with sump lubrication and mechanical face seals reduce maintenance to a minimum. Generators are synchronous with permanent magnets or asynchronous, for low voltage and the lower level of medium voltage. A unit weighs 9-13 t and can be moved by truck.
StrafloMatrix is built for places where space is lacking or module weight is limited. The generator is placed directly on the periphery of the runner, the permanent magnets are fixed along the outer rim, and the rotor and stator are encapsulated in a sealing and insulating compound. Such units are 50 % shorter and 35 % lighter than HYDROMATRIX, but their output is lower because of friction losses in the water-filled gap. The first StrafloMatrix started operation in 2004 at the Agonitz hydropower plant near Linz, and the output of the plant rose from 990 kW to 3.1 MW.
The units are non-regulated. The head range is 2-20 m, typically about 5 m, the flow of one unit is 5-12 m³/s, and the minimum plant flow is about 60 m³/s. The runner diameter is 1 120 or 1 320 mm, the rotational speed 250-428.6 rpm. The output of units in the references is 270-1 003 kW, and in StrafloMatrix 625-700 kW.
The references cover plants from 1.35 to 45.14 MW. The largest HYDROMATRIX plant in the world operates at Ashta (Albania, 2012), and other sites include Jebel Aulia with 80 units in 40 modules, Chievo, Nussdorf and Agonitz. In 2010 the technology received the Austrian State Prize in the field of ecology.
Technical specifications
| Head | 2-20 m (typically about 5 m) |
|---|---|
| Flow per unit | 5-12 m³/s |
| Unit output (references) | 270-1 003 kW; StrafloMatrix 625-700 kW |
| Runner diameter | 1 120 and 1 320 mm |
| Rotational speed | 250-428.6 rpm |
| Turbine | axial propeller, non-regulated |
| Generator | synchronous with permanent magnets or asynchronous, LV/MV |
| Bearings | roller with sump lubrication, face seals |
Request a price and lead time
HYDROMATRIX and StrafloMatrix: modular turbine-generator units for heads of 2-20 m. We reply within one business day.
Or email sales@usk.ua or call 044 339-50-20.
Questions and answers
What heads and flows is HYDROMATRIX suitable for?
For heads of 2-20 m, typically about 5 m, and a flow of 5-12 m³/s per unit. The minimum plant flow is about 60 m³/s.
How does StrafloMatrix differ from HYDROMATRIX?
In StrafloMatrix the generator is placed on the rim of the runner, so the unit is 50 % shorter and 35 % lighter. The output is lower because of friction losses in the water-filled gap.
Is a new dam needed for such a plant?
No, the modules are built into existing dams, spillways, canals or unused navigation locks. During a flood the modules are lifted out of the water passage with a crane.
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