INCREASE OF OPERATIONAL SUITABILITY OF HYDROTECHNICAL STRUCTURES ON THE EXAMPLE OF KAYRAKKUM HPP (TAJIKISTAN)

Subject: studying the main directions for increasing durability and safety of unique, technically complex objects on the example of the Kayrakkum HPP. The peculiarity of operation of this kind of structures is the specificity of physical, chemical and mechanical factors that negatively affect their durability. However, complexity of the technical solution execution does not allow us to completely replace these structures after expiration of their standard service life. Taking into account the uniqueness of the HPP, the programs for the operational suitability restoration are individual. The main problems of reconstruction are considered, which consist in the necessity of, firstly, increasing the station’s productivity, and secondly, ensuring the stability of the dam to erosion and scours. Research objectives: the goal of the study was to develop proposals for improvement of operational suitability of the Kayrakkum HPP based on data on the technical condition of its main units, buildings, and rockfill dam. Materials and methods: in the process of long-term operation, due to filtration processes, seismic influences, the performance parameters of buildings and structures of hydropower plants deteriorate, which negatively affects the reliability of their operation. Therefore, based on the methods of mathematical statistics, data on the projected flood were analyzed. The data on the technical condition of the main HPP equipment were also analyzed and the main directions of its modernization were determined. Results: an assessment of the probability of destruction of the dam showed the need to strengthen it to reduce water filtration. A comparative analysis of possible options for reconstruction of the Kayrakkum HPP has shown the need for an integrated approach that will allow us to solve both the issues of ensuring safety requirements in accordance with international quality standards and enhancement of the plant’s capacity to increase the generation of electricity, the demand for which has increased over time. Out of four technological solutions to reduce filtration into the body of the dam, an option of the central diaphragm from the secant bored piles has been chosen as the least affecting the production cycle of the entire complex. Conclusions: the results of this work can be used when clarifying the repair work organization project to link the technological cycles in such a way as to reduce the losses in generation of electricity caused by execution of works on reconstruction