Trash Rack Cleaning Machine Installation

Overview

Installed a new automated Muhr trash rack cleaning machine (TRCM) with boom hoist at the 144 MW Kali Gandaki 'A' Hydropower Station in Syangja district, Nepal, for client Kali Gandaki A (KGA) Hydropower Plant, under reference MSI-PRJ-73-403. The station contributes 25% of Nepal's total electricity production, runs 3 units of 48 MW each, and generates approximately 817.712 GWh annually. The project addressed excessive debris accumulation during seasonal changes such as autumn leaf fall and winter ice coverage, which had been hampering the existing raking machine. Work was completed on 10 September 2024, over a project duration of 1 year 5 months.

Scope & Deliverables

• New TRCM with double removing capability compared to the existing machine, allowing it to rake each 4.85 m slot in one shot rather than two
• Supply of intake under-sluice stop log, trash removal system, spare parts, and special tools
• Automatic cleaning algorithm controlled by water level sensors for removal of deposited foreign bodies from the protective racks
• Installation designed for easy operation and maintenance, reducing modifications to the plant without endangering persons or equipment

Outcome

The Muhr TRCM was installed and commissioned at the Kali Gandaki 'A' Hydropower Station, giving the station double the debris-removal capacity of the previous machine and automated, water-level-triggered raking of the trash racks.