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Paulo Afonso Complex

Modernization of Paulo Afonso I, II, and III Hydroelectric Plants

Altus was tasked with developing and implementing the new control, supervision, and data acquisition system for the Paulo Afonso Complex.

Integrated Control and Supervision Systems

Chesf contracted Altus to implement an engineering solution for the supervision, control, and protection of the generating units, water intake gates, substations, and auxiliary services at the first three plants of the complex: Paulo Afonso I, Paulo Afonso II, and Paulo Afonso III. The project involves the use of cutting-edge technology to enhance operational efficiency and ensure the safety of the facilities. It also includes upgrading existing systems to meet current and future energy demands, ensuring the sustainability and reliability of operations.

Remote Supervision and Control

Reduction in space and wiring, resulting in increased reliability, cost savings, and enhanced supervision and control capabilities

Precise Synchronization

GPS synchronization between the UACs and the supervisory system, allowing for accurate tracking of events across the system

Reliability and Durability

A robust communication system with enhanced diagnostics. An open, easy-to-maintain supervisory system

Faster Operations

A station located near the generators to speed up start-up and shutdown procedures and assist with maintenance tasks

System Highlights

The developed system offers the following key features:

- Event logging with 1ms precision for all digital input points

- Event logging with 100ms precision for all analog input points

- A dual redundant optical ring network for enhanced security and improved communication between UAs (Autonomous Units) and the supervisory system

- Redundant servers for the supervisory system

- Redundant database system

- Satellite (GPS) synchronization of UAs

- Provision of data and event information to ONS

- Oscillography and monitoring system

- Redundant protection relays

Redes e sistema de supervisão e controle

Communication Networks and Supervision System

For the supervision and control system, two “Hot Stand-By” supervisory servers were provided, communicating with all UAs through an optical communication ring (Ethernet). The displays provide real-time data.

For the communication and control networks, each UA and the communication hub panel were equipped with "RuggedCom" industrial switches to create the dual optical communication ring. This network supports the Alnet II TCP, Modbus TCP, DNP3, or IEC 60870-5-103 protocols.

Scope of the Electrical System Provided

Altus’s electrical project solution included:

- 13 Generator UAs

- 4 Auxiliary Service UAs

- 20 Substation UAs

- 3 Water Intake UAs

- Local and MCC Panels

- Protection Panels

- Low and Medium Voltage Distribution Panels

Serviços fornecidos com a solução desenvolvida

Services Provided with the Solution

- Design and installation of the GPS synchronization network

- Design and installation of the Ethernet optical communication network

- Design of protection and control systems for the generating units

- Single-line, three-line, functional, and logic diagrams

- Interconnection diagrams and cable lists

- Sizing of auxiliary service transformers and electrical conduit design

- Instrumentation and installation

- Commissioning, assisted operation, and training

About the Paulo Afonso Hydroelectric Complex

The Paulo Afonso I, II, and III hydroelectric plants are located on the São Francisco River in Paulo Afonso, Bahia. Together, they operate 13 generating units with a total installed capacity of 1,417,000 kW:

- Paulo Afonso I has three generators and began operations in 1955

- Paulo Afonso II has six generators and began operations in 1961

- Paulo Afonso III has four generators and began operations in 1971