Pumped-Storage Control for Seamless Pumping-Generation Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pumped-storage power generation facilities face challenges in switching between pumping and power generation operations without stopping the facility, which is necessary for adjusting to variations in renewable energy output and meeting changing electric power demands.
Innovation Solution
A control device that measures and adjusts both pumping input and power output of pumped-storage power generation facilities using a control section that calculates and sets target values based on measured electrical quantities, allowing for continuous operation by controlling the pumping input and power output to match set target values, thereby enabling seamless switching between pumping and power generation without stopping the facility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the operation is switched from pumping to power generating or from power generating to pumping to adjust input/output, then the pumped-storage power generation facility can absorb variations in renewable energy output and meet changing electric power demand, but the facility must be stopped and restarted which takes time
Solution Approach 1:
The pump-turbine is designed to operate dynamically across multiple modes including pumping, power generation, and idle states without requiring shutdown. The control system adjusts operational parameters in real-time to transition between modes while maintaining continuous rotation, eliminating stop-and-start time losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The facility changes operational parameters such as flow rate, head, and rotational speed to switch between pumping and power generation modes. By adjusting these parameters within a continuous operational framework rather than stopping and restarting, the system achieves rapid adaptation while minimizing time loss.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pumped-storage power generation facility stops and restarts to switch operations, then the facility can change between pumping and power generating modes, but the productivity and response speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pump-turbine maintains continuous rotational motion and water flow throughout mode transitions. The idle mode serves as a transitional state that preserves kinetic energy and system momentum, enabling rapid switching between pumping and power generation without interruption of the useful action, thereby maintaining high productivity and response speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system prepares for mode transitions by adjusting parameters in advance and utilizing the idle mode to pre-position the system for the next operational state. This preliminary preparation reduces the time required for actual mode switching, enhancing both productivity and response speed.
3Productivity
If the facility operates continuously without stopping, then the response speed and productivity are improved, but it becomes difficult to switch between pumping and power generating operations
Solution Approach 1:
The pump-turbine is designed as a universal machine capable of performing multiple functions including pumping, power generation, and idle operations within a single continuous operational framework. This multi-functionality is achieved through reversible turbine design and controllable valve systems that enable mode switching without requiring separate facilities or shutdown procedures, making continuous operation with easy mode switching feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The idle mode acts as an intermediary state that facilitates transitions between pumping and power generation modes. By introducing this intermediate operational state, the system can switch modes more easily while maintaining continuous operation, as the idle mode serves as a buffer that simplifies the transition process and maintains system stability during mode changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the pumped-storage power generation facility to adjust to variations in electric power demand and renewable energy output in real-time, allowing for efficient operation without stopping the facility, thus improving the ability to absorb output variations and maintain stable water levels in dams.
Implementation Method 1
a pump-turbine 3A connected to a generator motor 3B
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a pumped-storage power generation control device includes a control section that controls at least one of the pumping input of the pumped-storage power generation facility in the pumping operation and the power output of the pumped-storage power generation facility in the power generating operation such that a value, which is obtained by a predetermined calculation using the measurement value relating to the pumping input of the pumped-storage power generation facility in the pumping operation and the measurement value relating to the power output of the pumped-storage power generation facility in the power generating operation, becomes a set target value.