Industry: Power Generation – Hydropower

Location: Colombia

Client: 40 MW Run-of-River Hydroelectric Plant

Related Product: Eurotec Turbine Oil 32

Client Background

This remote hydropower station in southern Colombia supplies power to 70,000 households. The facility runs Kaplan turbines under fluctuating load conditions and high ambient humidity. Reliability and minimal human intervention are critical due to its mountainous location and limited technician access.

Operational Challenge

• Frequent foaming during partial load operation
• Varnish build-up in bearings and valves caused alarms and forced slowdowns
• Oil required replacement every 18 months, disrupting uptime
• High MPC (membrane patch colorimetry) values indicated incipient varnish

Solution

Eurotec Turbine Oil 32 was chosen for its:

• High oxidative stability (RPVOT >1,200 min)
• Varnish control system with low MPC residue formation
• Strong foam resistance and fast air release
• Anti-corrosion and anti-rust properties suitable for wet environments

Implementation Process

• System flushed and filters replaced
• Oil charged with baseline testing for TAN, viscosity, RPVOT, and MPC
• Quarterly performance audits included bearing inspection and oil sampling •    Online varnish monitor added after 6 months

Measured Results

• Oil service life extended to 30+ months with consistent MPC <15
• No foam-related shutdowns or false alarms since switch
• Bearing temperatures stabilized, improving load handling
• Maintenance call-outs reduced by 60%, saving travel cost and downtime
• Estimated operational savings: $21,000 annually

Customer Statement

"The difference is night and day. We now monitor our turbines remotely with confidence that the oil is doing its job."