Alstom has signed an agreement with Daido Metal for the supply of advanced coatings for the thrust bearing pads used in hydroelectric plants.
New coatings named under the Alstom trademark Polypad will increase bearing pad performance and durability, the company said in a statement.
“Alstom has tested many materials and found nothing that matches Polypad in terms of strength and durability. Alstom has units with these pads running flawlessly for several years so the technology has been proven. Now is the right time to increase our commitment to this innovation," said Maryse François-Xausa, Renewable Power R&D Senior Vice President at Alstom. "Polypad is another example of Alstom offering its hydro customers the latest innovations the market has to offer."
“This agreement with Alstom will let hydro customers all over the world benefit from Daido Metal’s state-of the art coatings," added Seigo Hanji, Chairman and CEO of Daido Metal. "This agreement is the latest step in a decade-long working relationship between Daido Metal and Alstom."
Daido Metal, a specialist bearing company, produces a high performance and low wear material able to be used in both conventional and reversible hydro machines, the company said. Polypad has been designed to support more weight than traditional thrust bearing pads. In retro-fit applications, the company said they can accept upgraded higher power generators, which are typically heavier, without having to replace the original thrust bearing, avoiding expensive civil works modifications.
Image: Mr Jacques Hardelay Chief Operating Officer for Alstom’s Hydro Business (left), and Mr Seigo Hanji, Chairman and CEO of Daido Metal
