Fatigue life analysis of penstocks

AFRY offers many different services in the field of high-pressure penstocks. One of these expertise is the determination of load spectra for fatigue analyses. By applying a Rainflow-count, the stress-strain hysteresis cycles are extracted, which allows for calculation of the fatigue damage. The necessary data of different load cases is generated from operating data or through transient flow analysis.

What are the benefits of penstock analysis?

Concerning construction projects from scratch, the calculations allow for an exact and extremely efficient design of the entire length of the high-pressure penstock according to the individual requirements of the customer. Another application of this procedure is for the estimation of remaining lifetime of components at existing hydro power plants. The load cases used during the design phase can be compared to the actual load cases measured during operation. This method gives the unique opportunity to predict maintenance intervals and plan them accordingly.

All required competences for execution of the life expectancy estimation, starting with simulation/measurement, over calculation, to interpretation of the results are covered by AFRY engineering specialists. This allows for a smooth and quick workflow with minimal effort for the customer.

With AFRY’s extensive know-how, we provide various services focused on penstocks:

• Development and design of penstocks (2D and 3D design)
• Water hammer calculations
• Fatigue life calculation
• Stress calculations