The component, weighing 45 tonnes, with a height of 8.5 metres, is to be used in Bhutan for a high-pressure power plant. Specifically, the branch will divide the water flow of the River Dagachhu and divert it to the Pelton turbines. From the end of 2012, the power plant is to supply 515 GWh of energy annually.

 
In this project, the challenge for Kremsmueller was in the working of the steel, with wall thicknesses from 25 to 70 mm. With the production shop that was set up in Steinhaus in 2010, the capacities required were achieved and therefore, it was also possible to execute the huge project relatively easily. Another thing that is worth mentioning is that the chamfers and run of the sheets were created fully automatically on a 3D-flame cutting machine. The new plate bending machine – which is unique in Europe – was also used. There were thus many firsts in the production of the branch.

The energy generated from the Dagachchu high-pressure power plant is to be mostly exported to India. The export of hydro-power forms about 40% of the national income of Bhutan. But the little kingdom still has several times more potential for hydro-electric power. Up to 2020, the capacity is to be expanded to 12,000MW.

 

Would you like to know more about the project? Please click at the top right on Contact and our experts will be happy to advise you.