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HyTN-01: Argonne National Laboratory Tribology Laboratory, Illinois

Capability TitleHyTN-01: Tribology Laboratory

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Surface Resistance Friction Testing and Tribology Material Characterization

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Argonne National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The Argonne National Laboratory Tribology Laboratory is one of the largest and most capable domestic tribology laboratories. The lab has a comprehensive compliment of benchtop tribological (friction, wear, contact fatigue), oil rheology, and material/surface characterization equipment; additional advance material characterization (electron microscopy, x-ray (lab source and synchrotron) is available with Argonne to conduct high fidelity analysis of materials. The Argonne staff scientists have decades of experience in conducting advanced tribological testing and analysis in support of various energy generation applications, including hydropower, done in partnership with various offices in DOE and various companies in the energy industry (component supplier, OEMs, plant managers, etc). The Tribology group specializes in advance tribological materials evaluation using customized testing and advanced characterization methods. Recently WPTO funded activity has focused on utilizing existing benchtop testing methods to evaluate the degradation and failure modes for hydropower bearings. The specific deliverable that would the voucher recipient could include tribological evaluation of new or existing materials, coatings, and lubricants for bearing and gear components or other components exposed to wear such wicket gates, turbine blades, etc. This group can also perform advanced material characterization to help determine root cause analysis of specific tribological/wear failures.

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Core Competencies

The Interfacial Mechanics and Materials Group (Tribology Group) consists of six PhD level staff scientists with several decades worth of experience in various tribological R&D topics, with backgrounds in mechanical engineering, materials science, metallurgy, and coating technology. The Group has extensive experience in tribological evaluations for various power generation applications including hydropower bearing component evaluation. This has included developing customized benchtop test rigs and methodologies to simulate the real, in operating conditions that the tribological components experience, and performing accelerated performance testing, including friction, wear, and contact fatigue analysis. The Group has supported various industrial companies in the development of new materials/coatings/lubricants as well as performance/reliability analysis of tribological components and materials.

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Capability Equipment Description

Tribological testing equipment: - pin-on-disc friction and wear test rigs, unidirectional sliding and reciprocating (3 rigs) - multi-purpose rig for accelerated rolling/sliding contact fatigue and wear (scuffing, macropitting, micropitting) (4 rigs), includes capabilities to test with or without applied electrical currents across contact - mini-traction-machine for lubricant traction and wear tests in rolling/sliding contact - sliding scuffing test rig - abrasive wear test rig Rheological test equipment: - kinematic viscometer - high temperature high shear viscometer - cold temperature viscometer Characterization: - metallographic preparation - optical microscopy - optical surface profilometer - electron microscopy - x-ray imaging and spectrometry (lab source and synchrotron source).

 

Capability Background

Specific to hydropower component evaluation the Tribology Group has completed work on bearing reliability testing by replicating common bearing failure modes on benchtop testing rig and provide experimental data to support prognostic health monitoring development. In addition, the Group conducted failure analysis of hydropower bearing components. This work was done in partnership with Idaho National Laboratory, a company that operates a large fleet of hydroelectric power plant, and DOE WPTO.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Type of testing support needed and number of samples.

 

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Address

Lemont, Illinois 60439 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.anl.gov

HyTN-02: Rome Mill, Wisconsin

Capability TitleHyTN-02: Ultra-low Head Micro-Hydropower Additive Manufacturing Testbed and Facility

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Biofouling

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Cadens, LLC

Capability Testing Objective

Cadens LLC is a micro-hydropower company located in Sullivan, WI. Cadens has a real-world testing facility in the form of a working mill on the Bark River. We propose to share this facility to advance hydropower research and development. Cadens’ facility can accommodate up to three conveyance/turbine systems at the same time, making it possible to test new systems while keeping previous generations working, for durability or antifouling studies or any other purpose. This also makes it possible for Cadens to work in parallel and collaboratively with others within the mill. A significant and key feature of Cadens’ facility is its being a real-world, riverine mill. This makes any testing in Cadens’ lab particularly practical and relevant to advancing the readiness of hydropower technologies. Such a unique facility is particularly useful to address practical issues such as durability, fish management, debris mitigation or biofouling. At the same time, like many other test facilities, it can also be used for generic performance assessment of mechanical or electrical components. Therefore, it is particularly useful for testing antifouling coatings, and prototypes or technologies that were demonstrated in a lab but have yet to face real world situations. Further, Cadens commits to cooperate with voucher recipients, as needed, on experiment design, testbed and instrument use, CAD/CFD models of the conveyance system, and/or conducting experiments. Cadens will also share its own results (within agreed upon confidentiality agreements), on such matters as comparing antibiofouling techniques or other issues of interest to the other party.

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Core Competencies

Cadens’ core competency is in small hydropower systems, with low heads in particular, and Cadens’ facility is most notable for being based on a real-world, riverine location, with a 9’ drop. In this location, Cadens has developed extensive experience in hydropower system design, testing, and performance evaluation, including durability assessments in an aquatic environment. Cadens’ signature focus is its use of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies to make both turbines and conduits in a customizable yet affordable manner. For example, it has worked with National Labs (ORNL) on Large-Format AM, a novel process still at the development stage, especially for aquatic environments for which it provided ORNL landmark information. Cadens, therefore, has used its facility to develop expertise in manufacturing techniques and the selection materials and coatings for use in rivers.

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Capability Equipment Description

Research Testbed Facilities at Rome Mill, Wisconsin: Cadens offers a unique low-head hydropower testbed facility for rent/lease in Wisconsin. Ideal for researchers in hydropower and related fields, our in-door testbeds provide a versatile and well-equipped environment for a variety of experimental needs. Available testbeds: Horizontal 12” system featuring: Flow rate: 1-20 cfs. Head: 3 meters. Prony brake. Custom turbine, power output: 0-6.5 kW. Generator: 5 kW continuous, 5.5 kW surge. Load: Islanded. Instrumentation: Full set, with NI Data Acquisition (DAQ) system, Greyline TTFM 6.1 Two currently unused 30" wall thimbles. Specialized testbeds: Biofouling testbed: Cadens is currently designing a custom manifold with a series of individual tubes for time-lapse observation of bioaccumulation on various materials, with controlled flow rates. They will be placed within the mill flume. An array of coated and uncoated coupons can therefore be immersed in various locations of the dam system. Debris mitigation testbed (two units). Bubble curtain testbed: Designed for testing bubble curtain effectiveness to drive debris away from headrace.

 

Capability Background

Cadens has been in operation for over 10 years. Aside from privately-funded work, Cadens has also conducted several grant-based projects, the most notable being a successful partnership with ORNL on the award-winning “LFAM Dam I” testbed (TRL 6/7) installed at the Rome mill. (LFAM stands for Large-Format Additive Manufacturing.) Cadens has also worked with the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Water Center (2015 STTR). Previous publicly funded projects: - 2015 STTR Phase I - “Turbine Builder HydropowerTechnology” - 2018 CRADA No. NFE-18-07280 - ORNL MDF, Phase I - LFAM Dam I - 2022 CRADA No. 21-08560 - ORNL MDF, Phase II - LFAM Dam II - 2023 SBIR Phase I - “Microhydro microgrid” Publications: - ORNL: Report ORNL/TM-2024/3376; NFE-21-08560. - Roschli, et al. (2023), “LFAM… for Low-Head Hydropower,” Additive Manufacturing Letters, 2023. - Yen, et. al., “Numerical optimization…”, ASME FEDSM2016 Conference. - El-Gammal, et. al., “Numerical investigations…”, ibid.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Cadens offers a unique low head micro-hydropower testbed and facility in South-East Wisconsin to conduct tests in a natural, riverine environment. It is equipped with a fully functional micro-hydropower system and other testing capabilities that are ideal for researchers in hydropower and related fields. We commit to cooperate with the voucher recipient, as needed, on experiment design, testbed and instrument use, CAD/CFD models of the conveyance system, and/or conducting experiments. Cadens will also share its own results (within agreed upon confidentiality agreements), on such matters as comparing antibiofouling techniques or other issues of interest to the other party.

 

Investigate

Address

Sullivan, Wisconsin 53178 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.cadensllc.com

HyTN-03: Hydraulics Laboratory, Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-03: Multi-scale Hydraulic and Environmental Testing for Hydropower Technologies

Hydraulic Fish Behavior and Entrainment Sediment Passage Water Passage Environmental Monitoring Turbine Performance Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:11 months

Owner:Colorado State University

Capability Testing Objective

The Hydraulics Laboratory at Colorado State University (CSU) provides a variety of hydraulic testing capabilities for hydropower technologies. The facility is unique with its proximity and water supply from the nearby Horsetooth Reservoir, allowing for large, sustained flow rates for large-scale hydropower hydraulic testing. Laboratory capabilities encompass a wide range of hydraulic structure tests, including Turbine Performance, Fish Passage Survival, Fish Behavior and Entrainment, Sediment Passage, Water Passage, Spillway Design, and Environmental Monitoring. These tests will be designed to provide critical data and insights necessary for optimizing the efficiency, safety, and environmental compatibility of hydropower systems. By leveraging existing state-of-the-art hydraulic facilities that can generate up to 54 feet of head and 200 cfs of flow capacity using water directly from the reservoir, CSU has the capability to support the development and validation of innovative hydropower technologies at a full, or near prototype, scale. Capabilities and expertise at the laboratory position CSU to provide unique and state-of-the-art facilities for hydropower testing. Outcomes of collaboration with the Hydraulics Laboratory will significantly advance the readiness of hydropower technologies by providing empirical data to support design improvements, enhance operational performance, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations for hydropower turbines and other relevant hydraulic designs. Specific deliverables to voucher recipients will include detailed performance reports, analytical data sets, and customized recommendations for technology enhancements. CSU is committed to supporting the hydropower industry with reliable, high-quality testing services that drive technological advancements and promote sustainable energy solutions.

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Core Competencies

The Laboratory has extensive experience in hydraulic services, focusing on evaluating hydraulic structure, turbine performance, sediment transport, and environmental monitoring. This includes conducting tests to assess turbine efficiency, analyzing sediment deposition/erosion patterns, and assessing water quality under various flow and head conditions. The lab utilizes advanced flow measurement techniques and numerical modeling to help developers optimize turbine designs, develop strategies to manage sediment loads, and assess the environmental impacts to promote sustainability. The lab also has experience in conducting hydraulic tests on fish survival and behavior in relation to hydropower facilities and ensuring that required hydraulic structures do not adversely affect aquatic life. Approaches include assessing mortality rates and injuries to fish passing through turbines and spillways, as well as employing behavioral studies and tagging technologies to monitor and mitigate the impacts of hydropower operations on fish populations. This capability helps developers to design fish-friendly strategies to enhance survival rates.

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Capability Equipment Description

CSU has long been a leader in hydraulic modeling and testing. The laboratory offers over 45,000 square feet of covered indoor space for model studies. There are outdoor flumes available for near-prototype-size, full-scale studies. The outdoor tilting flume is 4 feet wide and 120 feet long with a 50% slope, which can generate up to 54 feet of head and 200 cfs of flow rate using water directly from the nearby reservoir. We also have an additional facility to construct large-scale, custom flume configurations. These custom flumes can have widths typically ranging from 8 inches to 20 feet, with some specific cases previously built as large as 50 feet wide and 250 feet long. These setups are unique and ideal for hydropower testing compared to any other hydraulics laboratory. Combining experience with unique modeling and testing facilities, the Hydraulics Laboratory is capable of supporting the development and validation of various innovative hydropower technologies at a near-full scale, which is especially ideal for small hydropower innovation.

 

Capability Background

The Hydraulics Laboratory and the Engineering Research Center at CSU were built in 1962. Since then, the lab has been providing services to a wide variety of hydraulic services, including hydraulic model studies, overtopping performance testing, and many other hydraulic tests. Past service recipients have included federal and state government agencies, as well as industry companies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, US Bureau of Reclamation, Denver Water, AECOM, Alden Research Laboratory Inc., and Stantec Inc. Past physical models include reaches of river erosion and sedimentation models, all types of spillway diversion structures, intake structures, bridge waterway hydraulics and scour, fish passage structures, energy dissipation structures, and recreational whitewater features. Some additional hydraulic services include diver application of pier scour protection, sediment sampler efficiency, and riverine power generation. Details of previous physical model studies can be found on the laboratory’s website.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The laboratory has the flexibility to customize testing services to meet recipients' needs on hydraulic testing within the estimated cost range by utilizing multi-scale hydraulic flumes, advanced flow measurement techniques, and numerical models.

 

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Address

Fort Collins, Colorado 80521 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://hydraulicslab.engr.colostate.edu/

HyTN-04: Continuous Solutions Power and Energy Laboratory, Oregon

Capability TitleHyTN-04: Electrical Controls and Sensor Verification, Validation, and Testing

Electrical and Electronic Sensors and Controls

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:3 months

Owner:Continuous Solutions

Capability Testing Objective

CS offers testing services supporting the development, calibration, and testing of a variety of electrical sensors, controllers and control schemes, and other devices for providing system feedback and meaningful data extraction. Hydroelectric systems require constant automated monitoring to aid in operator and area safety, determine performance metrics and adjust to obtain maximum power extraction, and to detect when system maintenance may be required, among many other reasons. CS can provide full testing of electrical voltmeters, amp meters, power metering, and more, along with a selection of rotational mechanical sensors such as encoders, resolvers, and torque transducers. CS is dedicated to establishing customer relationships and will work to support full TRL 1-7 testing within company capabilities while maintaining clear lines of communication and transparent work scheduling.

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Core Competencies

CS has operated for over 10 years developing machines control systems involving a myriad of sensor feedback control schemes, testbed acquisition systems, and more in the support of SBIR/ STTR contracts. In that time, CS has constructed several current and speed closed-loop controlled inverters, motors with embedded temperature sensors and encoders, testbeds with torque transducers, and more, all of which involved the selection, implementation, calibration, and verification of sensor systems. CS employs a team of highly agile engineers and administrators that can provide quick turnaround prototyping, debugging, and testing services, which have been used in past projects for everything from developing combined high-efficiency motor and drive units to testing machines from outside companies in the renewable, automotive, and commercial sectors. CS is committed to grow this team and expand their sensor testing capabilities and expertise to provide a greater range and availability of services to voucher recipients.

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Capability Equipment Description

For electrical sensor test needs, CS operates a multiple DC and AC sources ranging from 800V, 500A DC buses to 3-phase inverters capable of 1200V, 400A AC peak. These can be verified alongside multiple oscilloscopes, probes, and meters to determine sensor accuracy and repeatability. CS also owns a thermal chamber to observe how sensors react under different thermal loading conditions, along with a dust chamber and submersion tank to test sensor IP ratings. Rotational mechanical sensors can be tested on CS’s pair of dynamometer testbeds, supporting up to 4500RPM and 800Nm. In addition, CS has many prototyping and debugging tools to assist in testing procedures and engineering services, including 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, and additional tools for verifying insulation rating, hardening against EMI noise, and more.

 

Capability Background

Under SBIR N68335-21-C-0081, CS designed, simulated, prototyped, and tested 10kW and 100kW machines with accompanying co-designed inverters. This development involved the calibration and testing of high speed closed-loop hall effect current sensors, SDFM voltage sensors, and QEP encoders. CS is currently working on SBIR N68335-21-C-0174, developing measurement methodologies and sensor technologies for the acquisition of common-mode interference noise data on high-power systems. This includes the creation of an active-noise-perturbation line impedance stabilization network to determine how attached systems function under a variety of noise stimuli while capturing that data and interpolating it to useful data for the construction of common-noise blocking inductors, chokes, and other passive components. Most recently, CS has worked under DOE SBIR to design, prototype, and test a micro-hydropower system to act as a replacement to pressure-reducing valves, in particular CS investigated the use of passive electrical loads to modulate machine torque loading to simulate pressure adjustment.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Sensor function, measurement range, measurement accuracy, environmental mechanical, electrical, and thermal needs, target application, other sensor-specific needs as requested, NDA, expectations and communications agreement(s).

 

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Address

Portland, Oregon, Oregon 97201 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.continuousolutions.com/

HyTN-05: Continuous Solutions Power and Energy Laboratory, Oregon

Capability TitleHyTN-05: Electrical Dynamometer and Power Electronics Testbenches for 20kW and 100kW

Electrical and Electronic Generator Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:3 months

Owner:Continuous Solutions

Capability Testing Objective

CS can provide access and testing expertise to its suite of dynamometer testbeds, control inverters, measurement equipment, and more to ascertain the speed, torque, and power performance and efficiency of electric machines and their drives. Such testing is critical to the development of hydropower technologies as it can ascertain the maximum power extraction levels given the expected range of hydrostatic inputs, the machine and associated converter efficiency over that range, and what limits the machines are capable of. CS provides full mounting, debugging, and testing services for submitted machines, and will provide torque-speed characteristic curves, efficiency contour maps, ramp testing for thermal performance, and other services/ data as requested. CS can also provide engineering services for inverters, controllers/ control schemes, and machines should recipient companies request additional support. CS is dedicated to establishing customer relationships and will work to support full TRL 1-7 testing within company capabilities while maintaining clear lines of communication and transparent work scheduling.

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Core Competencies

CS has operated for over 10 years developing machines, inverters, sensors, and more for governmental SBIR/ STTR contracts. In that time, CS has constructed and operated multiple testbed systems for dynamometer testing up to 100kW and is capable of capturing motor mechanical and electrical performance. CS employs a team of highly agile engineers and administrators that can provide quick turnaround prototyping, debugging, and testing services, which have been used in past projects for everything from developing combined high-efficiency motor and drive units to testing machines from outside companies in the renewable, automotive, and commercial sectors. CS is committed to grow this team and expand their motor testing capabilities and expertise to provide a greater range and availability of services to voucher recipients.

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Capability Equipment Description

CS operates a large and small testbed. The smaller testbed runs at 20kW, 4500RPM maximum, while the larger runs at 100kW, 4500RPM maximum. Machines under test are attached to these dynamometers via torque transducers, which provide both torque and speed data. 3-phase inverters can either be provided by voucher recipients or from CS to properly control up to 100kW at 400A peak. CS has access to a VFD DC bus (800V) and a battery storage system capable of providing clean DC configurable to 48, 96, 144, 200, 400, and 600 volts. CS's measurement suite utilizes 8-channel oscilloscopes to synchronously measure torque, speed, and 3-phase AC current and voltage, allowing CS to ascertain both mechanical and AC electrical power. In addition, CS has many prototyping and debugging tools to assist in testing procedures and engineering services, including 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, and additional tools for machine testbed alignment, determination of machine drive parameters, and more.

 

Capability Background

Under SBIR N68335-21-C-0081, CS designed, simulated, prototyped, and tested both a 10kW and 100kW machine with accompanying co-designed inverters. These tests utilized both testbeds and established testing and measurement procedures for obtaining high-performance/ efficiency results. CS also worked with EVR motors under the BIRD program to design a high-efficiency inverter for EVR's compact motor, and performed all testing on CS testbeds. CS was contracted by the Cascade corporation to determine and verify performance metrics for a 3rd party motor. Most recently, CS has worked under DOE SBIR to design, prototype, and test a micro-hydropower system to act as a replacement to pressure-reducing valves, in particular CS investigated the use of passive electrical loads to modulate machine torque loading to simulate pressure adjustment.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Machine target power, speed, and torque, electrical and mechanical limits, inverter needs and limits, machine mounting diagrams/ methods, machine shaft diameter(s), cooling needs , NDA, expectations and communications agreement(s).

 

Investigate

Address

Portland, Oregon, Oregon 97201 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.continuousolutions.com/

HyTN-06: Georgia Tech Hydraulic Laboratory, Georgia

Capability TitleHyTN-06: Hydraulic Testing of Spillway Designs, Operation Scheduling, and Scouring Potential of Downstream Riverbeds

Hydraulic Fish Behavior and Entrainment Sediment Passage Water Passage Biofouling Environmental Monitoring Turbine Performance Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Georgia Institute of Technology

Capability Testing Objective

Spillways are important hydraulic structures that regulate the water volume, hence outflow from, contained by dams. In the Georgia Tech Hydraulic Lab, we have expertise in performing hydraulic model tests on various aspects of spillway design and operation. Some examples include, but not limited to, (1) determination of head-discharge relationship and scheduling of gated spillways, (2) stilling basin design, (3) scour hole measurements in downstream riverbed, (4) air entrainment and cavitation on spillways, and (5) flow diversion structures. All of the above directly affect the reservoir water head and hence the available energy for hydropower generation. We offer the following service/results: (1) manufacturing of hydraulic models using acrylic, aluminum, stainless steel, and 3D printing and (2) detailed measurements of water levels, flow velocities, water pressures on solid surface, entrained air fractions, and scour hole geometry over space and time.

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Core Competencies

The Georgia Tech Hydraulic Lab is managed by faculty members of the water resources group in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Our faculty members have many years of teaching and research experience in engineering hydraulics. Beyond their PhD degrees, some faculty members also hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license. The undergraduate and graduate degree programs are consistently ranked top five in the nation and our students are actively engaged in externally funded research projects led by our faculty.

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Capability Equipment Description

The lab's core facility is a closed loop recirculating system that supplies water flows at rates between 0.2 and 20cfs to multiple water flumes of various dimensions at the same time. The water flow supplied to each flume is metered by an electromagnetic flowmeter. 1. 3ft-wide, 30ft-long, 3.6ft-tall sediment flume - This flume has been used to test spillway models for spillway gate scheduling and downstream riverbed erosion potential. Fine sand of 1-ft deep is used to make the riverbed. 2. 1.5ft-wide, 26ft-long, 1.25ft-tall rough bed tilting flume - This flume has been used to test sediment transport in rivers. The roughened bed is constructed with 1 to 10mm granular pebbles. The relationship between bed shear stress and channel Froude number has been quantified. Small hydraulic models can be placed inside the flume for testing. 3. 3.2ft-wide, 80ft-long, 1.4ft-tall tilting steel flume - This flume has been used to test the power output of an array of tidal energy convertors under unidirectional flows. Its long length allows the components of large hydraulic models to be installed in series for testing. We have ADV and PIV systems for measuring water velocities and different gauges for water surface profiles.

 

Capability Background

We have completed various studies on spillway design and sediment transport in the past. Although not with the scope of this matching opportunity, we have also done studies on bridge abutment scour in compound open channels.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The required model scale, prototype flow rates, sediment characteristics in the field, and acceptable uncertainties in the modeled results.

 

Investigate

Address

Atlanta, Georgia, Georgia 30332 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://ce.gatech.edu/academics/groups/water

HyTN-07: INL Energy Systems Laboratory (ESL), Idaho

Capability TitleHyTN-7: Real-Time Validation of Plant and Unit level, Steady-State and Dynamic Operation of Hydropower Components and System

Electrical and Electronic Grid Integration/Hardware-in-the-loop

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:6 months

Owner:Idaho National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The digital real-time simulation with power and controller hardware-in-the-loop capability will enable validation of hydrogovernor, excitation, protection or any other control prototypes against various emulated scenario of the interconnected grid. In addition, the fully customizable and scalable capability offers the provision of any coordinated control testing, should the hydropower system be electrically hybridized with another source of energy (either synchronous generator or inverter-based resource). High speed (upto 120 samples/second) measurements collected during the test and other responses will help the voucher recipients to better assess the performance of their system or component(s) while interacting with the grid across various scenarios. Such tests will help to identify and resolve any hardware, software or control qualities and hence advance readiness of the pertinent technologies for compatible integration and operation with the electric grid.

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Core Competencies

INL has been in the forefront of hydrogovernor model validation, power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) tests, which de-risked two black start field demonstrations, carried out with Idaho Falls Power ([https://doi.org/10.2172/1891110 https://doi.org/10.2172/1891110]) and Fall River Electric Cooperative ([https://inl.gov/water-power/new-tech-brings-resilience-to-small-town-hydropower/ [https://inl.gov/water-power/new-tech-brings-resilience-to-small-town-hydropower/]). Furthermore, INL executed controller hardware-in-the-loop (CHIL) to validate Microgrid control system prior its deployment at the Blue Lake Rancheria Microgrid ([https://doi.org/10.2172/1426889 https://doi.org/10.2172/1426889]). Overall, it is the offline validation of models, and real-time simulation to de-risk any pilot demonstration and/or deployment that INL has demonstrated experience in.

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Capability Equipment Description

The real-time simulation capability at ESL consists of 1) Digital real-time simulator with 4 RTDS racks including 2 NovaCore: (4 + 4) PB5, and (5+5) Cores; OPAL-RT: OP4520 (FPGA Processor and I/O Expansion Unit); OP5600 (Real-Time Digital Simulator); Typhoon: HIL603, Breakout Board 2.1, 2) AMETEK 480 3Ph AC, 540kVA Grid Emulator that can act both as source and sink, 3) Magna-Power Solar Array Emulator, 4) 375 kVA/ 1.24 kWh 1000 VDC Maxwell Ultracapacitor, 5) 250 kVA/320 kWh Li-Ph Battery (Relocatable Resiliency Alternative Power Improvement Distribution Microgrid in a Box) (https://inl.gov/feature-story/microgrid-in-a-box-opening-new-possibilities-in-defense-utilities-disaster-relief/ ), 6) Siemens Smart Energy Box - leveraged to test and de-risk microgrid control for Blue Lake Rancheria (https://doi.org/10.2172/1426889), 7) PSL micro-PMUs that can record analog measurements at 120 Samples/Second, 8) 80 kW Microgrid testbed (https://factsheets.inl.gov/FactSheets/Microgrids%20Backup2021.pdf), including Solar farms, SMA inverter (30 kW, 7 kW), Princeton GTIB grid forming inverter (100 kW), 9) SEL devices: SEL – 421 (Protection Automation Control), SEL – 700G (Generator Protection Relay), SEL – 735 (Power Quality and Revenue Meter), SEL – 3516 (Protection System), SEL – 3555 (Real-Time Automation Control), SEL – 2730M (Managed Ethernet Switch).

 

Capability Background

ESL’s real-time simulation capabilities have been leveraged, to prepare and de-risk storage supported small hydropower black start field demonstration with Idaho Falls Power (https://doi.org/10.2172/1891110), and Fall River Electric Cooperative (https://inl.gov/water-power/new-tech-brings-resilience-to-small-town-hydropower/). Such capabilities have also been utilized to validate control mechanisms for the Blue Lake Rancheria Microgrid (https://doi.org/10.2172/1426889). Beyond ESL, INL has partnered with National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) and National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to build Superlab 2.0 (https://www.nrel.gov/news/features/2023/combined-superlab-demonstrates-unique-hybrid-power-plant.html), and execute remote HIL tests of NETL’s Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) – Gas Turbine (GT) hybrid system over secured network (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/am/pii/S0196890422003405).

 

Applicant Information Needs

Digital input/output specifications, electrical interconnection specifications, dimensions of the physical system, lifting, carrying and handling needs for the component or set of components to be tested. Operating systems, input/output signal specifications, standard model specification and parameter values for any control prototype and/or black box model to be tested.

 

Investigate

Address

Idaho Falls, Idaho 83415 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://inl.gov/integrated-energy/renewable-energy/

HyTN-08: Natel Energy Fish Passage Test Facility, California

Capability TitleHyTN-08: Ecohydraulics Testing, Including Fish Passage and Behavior

Biological and Aquatic Labs Fish Behavior and Entrainment Sediment Passage Turbine Performance Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:8 months

Owner:Natel Energy

Capability Testing Objective

The objective of this testing capability is to evaluate the response of fish or other aquatic organisms to various conditions and technologies related to hydropower; for example fish passage/fish survival tests through scale model turbines of around 0.55m diameter, as well as fish behavior observation in controlled flume environments. Natel’s testing capabilities allow for highly-controlled and repeatable tests with exceptionally good visibility of the test areas, allowing for unambiguous direct observation/recording of fish movements, both in the test turbine and in the flume setting. Safe, timely, and effective passage of fish, other aquatic life, sediment, and nutrients is critical to maintain thriving freshwater ecosystems, which deliver clean water, flood buffering, and fisheries, and provide cultural and recreational value. Various innovations are emerging now (sensor fish, fish friendly turbines, and behavioral guidance systems), which may improve the environmental performance of the hydropower fleet, but which will benefit from high-quality tests conducted with live fish, in all TRL stages including but not limited to scientific discovery, proof-of-concept, and detailed validation. Our process begins with understanding client goals. Natel can collaborate with the client to define a test plan, working to structure a test which can meet the client goals while remaining within budget. Natel can assist with engineering and design of any related test infrastructure, and will manage its construction and implementation. Natel will carry out the required testing, and collaborate with clients to discuss findings, ultimately delivering a report summarizing the test, its results, and any recommendations.

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Core Competencies

Natel has a strong engineering team with decades of relevant experience including: -an unbiased, objective, and scientific approach to technology development and testing -adherence to ethical test standards, including when appropriate the involvement of the IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) -design and execution of fish passage and fish behavior tests across a wide variety of fish species and life stages (American eel, alewife, Atlantic salmon, Rainbow trout, White sturgeon, Channel catfish) and in collaboration with various stakeholders, such as regulatory agencies including the USFWS and NMFS), resulting in multiple peer-reviewed publications, in partnership with world-class institutions such as PNNL, ORNL, the University of California, Davis Fish Conservation Physiology Lab, Alden Research Laboratory (now Verdantas Flow Labs), the University of Innsbruck Unit of Hydraulic Engineering, and Kleinschmidt Associates. -engineering, production, and implementation of specialized test equipment, such as hydraulic flumes and associated fixtures, electronic controls, data acquisition, etc.

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Capability Equipment Description

- 6000-gallon recirculating aquaculture system, capable of safe and long-duration holding of freshwater organisms. Natel has utilized this facility to hold American eel, Rainbow trout, Chinook salmon smolts, White sturgeon, Channel catfish, Bluegill perch, and Largemouth bass. - Scale-model turbine test stand with treatment and control fish injection and recovery systems, direct visual observation of test turbine area, color and black-and-white high-speed video systems (1000+ fps). Variable-speed pump; flow up to 1 cms (35 cfs) and head up to 32 m (105 ft). Variable-speed turbine, up to 1000 rpm. - A variety of existing 55 cm diameter runners are available, including specially-designed 2- and 3-bladed FishSafe RHT propeller runners, as well as a conventional 3-bladed propeller runner. Natel will design new runners if needed. - Flume (closed or open-channel capable) with 0.65 m x 0.65 m test section up to 5.2 m long, with up to 0.28 cms (10 cfs) flow. Very good velocity uniformity ( greater than 0.96) within the test section. Can be equipped with inserts to achieve project objectives; for example, an insert reduced the test section to 0.65 m x 0.4 m, allowing trout behavior tests at up to 1 m/s flow velocity.

 

Capability Background

Natel’s team are experts in turbine design for fish safety, and design and operation of unique experimental facilities for assessment of fish passage. They invented the FishSafe Restoration Hydro Turbine (RHT) in 2019, and led multiple lab and field-based fish passage assessments of the RHT including strike tests at Alden Research Laboratory with Rainbow trout (Amaral et al 2019), eel passage tests with a CA DFW restricted-species permit and IACUC with PNNL (Watson 2022), juvenile alewife field passage tests with Kleinschmidt (Watson et al 2023), and flume behavioral tests of Rainbow trout in response to electrified barriers with PNNL and the University of Innsbruck (Pflugrath et al 2023). Natel has completed many DOE contracts serving as PI (8 projects since 2009), and has consistently demonstrated the ability to deliver solutions to a variety of difficult design challenges and constraints in both R&D and commercial environments.

 

Applicant Information Needs

What species/life stages do they want to study? Any specific passage considerations that they are worried about or metrics that they are trying to reach (eg do they need to reach a specific percent survival) Turbine specifications (net head, speed, discharge at 55 cm scale) Can they provide a version of their turbine that is 55cm in diameter? Operating points desired for fish passage testing.

 

Investigate

Address

Alameda, California 94501 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.natelenergy.com/

HyTN-09: Natel Hydraulic Design and Test Facility, California

Capability TitleHyTN-09: Hydraulic Model Testing of Hydropower Turbines

Hydraulic Water Passage Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:7 months

Owner:Natel Energy

Capability Testing Objective

Natel operates two closed-loop hydraulic scale-model testing facilities, whose objective is to precisely measure the performance of hydraulic turbines. Typical deliverables from a performance test include a report documenting the test plan, specifications of the model turbine, a calibration report for all instruments, record of the data and computed performance values, and discussion. In addition to hydraulic turbine model testing, Natel can help design and perform hydraulic tests of a wide variety of structures, such as intakes, piers, draft tubes, baffles, etc.

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Core Competencies

Natel has over 10 years of in-house testing experience and began scale performance tests in 2013 with our 0.35 cms (12 cfs) system, still used today for quick-turn, small-scale testing. Natel’s larger 1 cms (35 cfs) scale hydraulic test stand was built and commissioned by our team in 2017. Five turbine performance tests have been conducted to date using this larger facility, in addition to twelve fish passage tests. James Walsh (retired, formerly Rennasonic, Inc.; former chair of the US TAG for IEC TC-4 and participant of the ASME PTC-18 committee) participated in 2018 commissioning as well as the first RHT-propeller scale model performance test in 2019. Natel’s co-founder and CTO, Abe Schneider, is a member of the IEC TC-4 committee.

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Capability Equipment Description

Key onsite equipment includes a test turbine with high-speed video, water storage (80 m3), variable speed pump (up to 1.1 cms, up to 32 m head), flow calibration tank (50 m3), and more. Complementary onsite components and capabilities include automated test setpoint management; precise control of flow, head, speed, and gate position across a wide variety of operating ranges; best in class instrumentation for efficiency and loads; cavitation onset testing; pressure pulsation testing; air admission testing; 3D scanning to validate profiles; quick-turn runaway testing with 3D printed geometry; design capability for machined, cast, and composite components; and in-house fabrication, machining, and inspection capabilities. Control and data acquisition is handled by a state of the art industrial PC (IPC) system from Beckhoff Automation.

 

Capability Background

Natel has been creating innovative turbine designs since 2009, with a primary focus on turbine design for safe fish passage since 2019. To rapidly evaluate these designs, Natel has invested in unique yet standard-compliant scale model hydraulic testing facilities that complement CFD-based models of all aspects of turbine performance across their operating ranges. Natel has performed three hydraulic performance tests on the larger 1 cms (35 cfs) facility, quantifying efficiency, hydraulic and shaft power, and discharge across a full sweep of guide vane angles and shaft speeds. Natel’s engineering team has additionally completed many DOE contracts serving as the PI (8 projects since 2009), and has consistently demonstrated the ability to deliver reliable solutions to a variety of difficult design challenges and constraints in both R&D and commercial environments.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Performance tests desired and ideal outcome Performance parameters of the turbine (flow, head, power, etc.) Turbine configuration (vertical, horizontal, bulb, adjustable pitch vs propeller, etc.) Specific problem(s) the client is hoping to address with these tests Requirements to comply with testing or other standards.

 

Investigate

Address

Alameda, California 94501 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://natelenergy.com/

HyTN-10: NREL Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES), Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-10: Cyber Range Platform for Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing and Demonstration in Virtual Environment

Electrical and Electronic Cybersecurity

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The ARIES Cyber Range platform supports following capabilities for advancing the state-of-the-art hydropower cybersecurity: 1) High-fidelity hydropower-integrated energy system models: NREL researchers have developed a high-fidelity hydropower models at the ARIES site by integrating real-time simulators, digital governors, speed hydro-generator, etc. to support field validation and evaluation. This project will leverage digital twin models of hydropower and generated field datasets to support large scale grid simulation in the NREL’s CyberRange environment. 2) Grid Emulation: NREL can emulate real grid by designing communication protocols, a digital twin of energy assets, all within a state-of-the-art, scalable platform that supports the fast deployment of high-fidelity system models. Virtualization, container orchestration, and software-defined networking are just a few of the techniques that enable this capability. 3) Power Hardware-in-the-loop testing: NREL’s cyber range integrates a variety of energy devices —including electric vehicles, connected buildings, batteries, and utility distribution components—and connects remotely to the 305-acre Flatirons Campus, where NREL houses wind turbines, solar arrays, megawatt-scale battery systems, and power grid infrastructure. 4) Advanced Distributed Management System (ADMS) testbed for hydropower: NREL's (ADMS) testbed can help industry vendors to assess the performance of their in-built tools, such as to analyze its operation in the hydropower-integrated energy storage systems, meet customer expectations of reliability, power quality, renewable energy use, data security, and resilience to natural disasters and other threats. 5) Red team testing for industry-specific tools: NREL have a dedicated team of researchers and developers who can evaluate the reliability, security, and effectiveness of applied tools for testing.

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Core Competencies

1) Power Hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) testing and validation: Testbed at the NREL's ARIES Cyber Range will improve the technical readiness level of technology developers by testing and validation in the grid environment in a large-scale in the virtual environment. 2) Interoperability Assessment: The current power grid is dependent of several communication protocols, including DNP3, IEC 61850, IEEE C37.118, etc, which are vulnerable to different types of cyber-attacks. Testing facility at NREL addresses the interoperability challenges by emulating communication protocols and performing attack defense of the technology/tool developed by the voucher recipient. 3) Quality of service (QoS) assessment: The NREL ARIES Cyber Range platform also supports QoS assessments by analyzing network packets for data latency, packet loss, and communication bandwidth for a reliable communication network. 4) Red Team testing: NREL researchers can perform red team testing of the voucher recipient tool to discover any zero day exploits.

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Capability Equipment Description

1) Testing facilities of the NREL Cyber Range platform is located at the following address: 15013 Denver W Pkwy, Golden, CO 80401. 2) The NREL cyber range platform allows remote access capability to allow vendors to test their products. NREL also supports bringing industry devices and projects inside the laboratory environment to perform hardware-in-the-loop testing and red team testing of these products. 3) Through the Clean Energy Cybersecurity Accelerator program, NREL researchers and engineers have allowed industry participants to evaluate the proposed cyber-risk solutions. This program focuses on delivering solutions that identify industrial control system assets connected to a utility’s infrastructure—including unauthorized, unmanaged, or compromised assets requiring removal or remediation.

 

Capability Background

NREL has completed two cohorts through the Clean Energy Cybersecurity Accelerator (CECA) program. The CECA program brings together federal infrastructure and expertise, asset owners in the energy sector, and technology innovators in a unified effort to catalyze the development of new cybersecurity solutions for the nation’s future clean energy grid. The CECA offers a world-class facility for asset owners of all sizes and types to work jointly to develop and deploy renewable, modern, and secure grid technologies that are cost competitive. The innovative technologies will also advance the state of the practice in demonstrating “security by design” – ensuring cybersecurity is built into renewable technologies and architectures at the start at the start of the design and development process, not bolted on after deployment.

 

Applicant Information Needs

NREL will know following information about the voucher recipient: 1) the technology of the voucher recipient, 2) mode of operation, 3) how it minimizes the cybersecurity challenges in the hydropower network, and 4) scalability and interoperability of the technology, 5) publications showing testing of their products.

 

Investigate

Address

Denver, Colorado, Colorado 80401 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.nrel.gov/security-resilience/cyber-range.html

HyTN-11: NREL Structural Validation Laboratory (STL), Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-11: Structural Validation of Hydropower Components

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Material Characterization Structural Integrity and Dam Safety Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:10 months

Owner:National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

Component and full-scale structural validation of hydropower system components: validate models, demonstrate system reliability, enable value engineering, and demonstrate structural and functional readiness for deployment. NREL complements modeling and analysis capabilities with facilities and equipment needed for structural validation of marine and hydrokinetic devices. NREL's facilities and capabilities are uniquely suited for characterizing materials and performing structural validation of components and complete systems.

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Core Competencies

Full-scale structural validation of mechanical components for model validation, material conditioning and load acceleration for lifetime fatigue testing, and demonstrate structural and functional readiness for deployment. ISO 17025 laboratory for testing of full scale structures. Includes: 70-meter long, 1,000 square-meter facility for test article preparation and composite material development - up to 1,800 square meters of laboratory space across three test facilities - Five validation stands with overturning moment capacities from 100 kNm to 16.7 MNm. Servohydraulic actuators with piston displacements to 1.5 meters and force capacities up to 500 kN. Extensive data acquisition and sensing capabilities for measuring structural properties and nondestructive evaluation. Saturation tanks for preconditioning validation articles. Relevant test articles and objectives could include full-scale and or sub-scale or sub-component validation, optimization, de-risking and demonstration. This would encompass a wide range of relevant hydropower and pumped storage components and sub-systems such as runners, conveyance structures, gates, etc.

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Capability Equipment Description

Material property, static, and fatigue testing capability using servohydraulic load frames. Strength and fatigue testing of materials. Up to 500 kN force capacity, 150 mm stroke. Alignment fixtures. Hydraulic wedge grips. ASTM test fixtures including D7078, D6641, C393, D2344, D7291.100 kN, 250 kN, and 500 kN structural load frames for coupon and element testing. Smaller-scale, in-water characterization of materials.

 

Capability Background

Since 1990, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has validated more than 150 wind turbine blades, as well as blades and components for water power devices. Researchers can experimentally validate full-scale and subcomponent articles, conduct data analyses, and provide engineering expertise to optimize design practices. Structural evaluation of turbine blades enables designers, manufacturers, and owner operators to assess designs and structural performance under specific extreme loading and dynamic conditions. Rigorous structural validation can reveal design and manufacturing problems at an early state of development that lead to improvements in component design and increase system reliability.

 

Investigate

Address

Arvada, Colorado 80007 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.nrel.gov/water/facilities-structural.html

HyTN-12: NREL Composites Manufacturing Education and Technology (CoMET), Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-12: Composites and Non-composites Advanced Manufacturing Rapid Design and Prototyping for Hydropower Technologies

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Material Characterization Advanced Manufacturing

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:10 months

Owner:National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

10,000-ft2 CoMET enables the design, rapid prototyping, and manufacture of novel renewable energy system composite components in one location. Relevant Hydropower components could include runner, penstock, wicket gates, stay vanes, scroll case draft tube, etc. Users can also simulate and model designs and manufacturing methods. Other capabilities include: Rapid prototyping of new materials and production methods, Large-area rapid nondestructive evaluation, Modeling and manufacturing simulation. Non-composite advanced manufacturing/3D printing. Structural evaluation of coupons, components, and joints, Industrial robotic platform for automation research, Composite recycling processing and material characterization.

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Core Competencies

Featuring specialized capabilities marine energy industry composite research, CoMET provides tech developers with the tools and workspaces essential to the development of industry-advancing materials and processes, such as: -Rapid prototyping of new blade materials and production methods -Full-scale blade component tooling and fixtures (root, spar cap, tip, shear web) -Infusion, pultrusion, prepreg, RTM, hand lay-up (small parts) -Polyester, vinyl-Ester, epoxy, thermoplastic/fiberglass, carbon fiber -Comprehensive composite production equipment (mixers, vacuum, dispensers) -Molding, assembly, bonding, and finishing -Thermal welding -Segmented 3-D printed tooling -Large-area rapid nondestructive evaluation -Modeling and manufacturing simulation -Panels, material coupons, and components -Structural evaluation of coupons, components, and joints -Industrial robotic platform for automation research -Composite recycling processing and material characterization -Workforce development and training for the composites industry. -Industrial robotic platform for automation research -Composite recycling processing and material characterization.

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Capability Equipment Description

Situated on the sprawling 305-acre Flatirons Campus, the 10,000-ft2 CoMET expands NREL's composite manufacturing research capabilities by enabling researchers to design, prototype, validate, and manufacture composite wind and marine turbine blades and other components in one location.

 

Capability Background

NREL has been designing and validating composite renewable energy structures for over 35 years. NREL is at the forefront of research into thermoplastic resins, accelerating the commercialization of additive manufacturing and next-generation technologies and processes such as new, low-cost, 3D-printable magnet materials. NREL performs foundational research into next-generation renewable energy system manufacturing processes that will enable the factories of the future. Experts have access to the equipment and materials that can transform design concepts into prototypes, and from prototypes to products. NREL is researching how new and emerging Industry 4.0 technologies in material science, high-performance computing, automation, and 3D printing can impact large-scale renewable energy manufacturing. NREL is also developing innovative recycling solutions for composite materials, including for both existing thermoset blade materials and future blade materials. In 2020, NREL CoMET research received Special Recognition Awards from R&D World magazine for the Thermoplastic Resin System for Wind Turbine Blades. This technology was recognized as a "market disruptor" for the wind and water power industry’s current turbine manufacturing process, enabling the production of recyclable blades that are stronger, longer, and less expensive to manufacture, increasing energy capture, decreasing energy and transportation costs, and increasing blade reliability. Developed in concert with Arkema Inc., the resin system—coupled with NREL’s thermal welding technique—allows many of the materials to be recycled and reused.

 

Investigate

Address

Arvada, Colorado 80007 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.nrel.gov/wind/facilities-comet.html

HyTN-13: NREL Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES) and Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF), Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-13: Microgrid Control Platform for Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing in Virtual Environment

Electrical and Electronic Repair Methods Cybersecurity Generator Performance Grid Integration/Hardware-in-the-loop Sensors and Controls Environmental Monitoring

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:10 months

Owner:National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

Up to 20 MW Controller hardware-in-the-loop R&D, where the physical controller interacts with a model of the microgrid and associated power devices: microgrid hardware, programmable AC and DC power supplies. Hydropower hybrid R&D, with wind, PV, hydrogen production, programmable loads, and energy storage. Development of real-time power device and network software models and real-time power simulations across a range of timescales, from sub-cycle electromagnetic transients to quasi-steady-state power flow simulations. Inclusion of real-time models from other domains, such as communication networks and building and thermal systems, in PHIL simulations via co-simulation.

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Core Competencies

Modeling and simulation of microgrid systems on timescales of electromagnetic transients and dynamic and steady-state behavior. Controller hardware-in-the-loop testing, where the physical controller interacts with a model of the microgrid and associated power devices. Expertise in distributed optimization and control of sustainable power systems that can be applied to microgrid distributed energy resources dispatch. Power hardware-in-the-loop testing of microgrid components with full range of emergency scenarios.

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Capability Equipment Description

ARIES hosts hardware and simulation capabilities that support experiments for thousands of research devices, power levels from a kW level through 20 MW, and voltage levels up to 34.5 kV representing the interface between distribution and bulk power systems. Includes: - Hardware-in-the-loop up to 20 MW - Medium-voltage (13.2-kV) research grid infrastructure allowing assets to interconnect on a standalone grid, emulated grid, or with the utility - 2 controllable grid interfaces, 7-MW and 20-MW, allowing multiple experiments at once and a customized, controllable research grid with diverse grid conditions - Hydropower emulation platform - Grid integration research pads with power connections up to 4 MW each - Electrical switchgear, metering, and data acquisition equipment connecting devices to the utility grid, research grid, and other assets - Wind turbine and photovoltaic solar technology in various sizes - Megawatt-scale energy storage system and load bank - Custom medium-voltage data acquisition system including dozens of real-time, global positioning system-synchronized, modular measurement nodes located at all power devices and strategic electrical interconnection points sitewide - Hydrogen capabilities include a 1.25-MW proton-exchange membrane electrolysis system, 600-kg ground storage system, hydrogen compressor, 1-MW proton exchange membrane fuel cell generator and 3.7-MW cooling system allowing researchers to create, store, and use hydrogen in a full grid environment.

 

Capability Background

NREL is collaborating with other national labs, San Diego Gas & Electric and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association to create a resilient operation of networked microgrids capability, which helps utilities rapidly recover from extreme events using coordinated operation of microgrids. Resilient operation of networked microgrids allows users to define resilience goals and predicted threats, generate candidate microgrid designs integrated with the existing distribution infrastructure, and test, in simulation, recovery scenarios supported by networked coordination of the proposed microgrids. Using digital real-time simulator capabilities, NREL is developing a hardware-in-the-loop test bed to simulate events and their impact on system stability and microgrid operation. The test bed validates that solutions from the resilient operation of networked microgrids tool result in feasible recovery schemes with data provided by investor-owned utility and electric cooperative utility partners. The capability includes dataset import and editing tools, making project results deployable to North American distribution utilities.

 

Applicant Information Needs

NREL will need data for emulation activities; controllers for grid/grid-edge activities.

 

Investigate

Address

Arvada, Colorado 80007 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.nrel.gov/grid/microgrid-controls.html

HyTN-14: NREL Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES), Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-14: Hydropower Emulation Platform: 250 kW-2.5 MW Dynamometers

Electrical and Electronic Generator Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:10 months

Owner:National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The hydropower emulation platform uses real-world data and dynamics-preserving scaling using physics and machine learning techniques to emulate grid-scale hydro using 250 kW-2.5 MW dynamometers. Ability to tie electrical generation with hydrodynamics via emulator at a MW-scale. Rapid-prototyping of next generation control systems and operational scenarios. Can emulate real-world environment in controlled laboratory setting to better understand interactions of hydro, storage and operational conditions such as load-shedding and blackstart capabilities and development of control paradigms.

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Core Competencies

With the ARIES Digital Real-Time Simulation (DRTS) system and the ability to emulate devices and grid-edge controllers at scale, it is essential to consider the dynamic behaviors of hydropower and pump storage from both mechanical and electrical perspectives. To achieve this, NREL is equipped with a 250 kW-2.5MW hydro emulator capable of operating based on actual hydrodynamic data from remote hydropower plants. This setup allows us to understand the hydrodynamic interactions and enhance the observability of system dynamics from both hydrokinetic and electrical perspectives. It provides an ideal environment to perform model validation and scalability analysis, ensuring comprehensive insights into the behavior of hydropower systems.

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Capability Equipment Description

The megawatt-scale hydropower emulation incorporates several ARIES infrastructure assets, including: - A large cluster of digital real-time simulation for regional-level power system dynamics and controllable grid interface (19.9 MVA) for electrical power hardware-in-the-loop and controller hardware-in-the-loop experiments - Actual hardware grid controllers, digital governors, variable-speed hydropower emulation, and power electronic interfaces - A megawatt-scale (2-by-1.25-MW) variable-speed hydropower emulation platform for mechanical power hardware-in-the-loop experiments - Renewable energy assets (such as wind turbines and solar photovoltaics) - Energy storage and conversion technologies (such as batteries and hydrogen electrolyzers) - A low-power advanced power electronics building block test bed

 

Capability Background

1)250kW Emulator Scalability Analysis: Conducted scalability analysis based on U.S. and Norway use cases with variable renewable penetration using the 250kW emulator. 2) 2.5MW Hydro Emulator: The 2.5MW hydro emulator will be available in February 2025.

 

Applicant Information Needs

NREL will need data for emulation activities; controllers for grid/grid-edge activities.

 

Investigate

Address

Arvada, Colorado 80007 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.nrel.gov/water/hydropower-emulation-platform.html

HyTN-15: NREL Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES) and Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF), Colorado

Capability TitleHyTN-15: Grid-Edge to Grid-Scale Digital Real-Time Simulation (DRTS) and Power Electronics Testbed for Hydropower Technologies

Electrical and Electronic Grid Integration/Hardware-in-the-loop Sensors and Controls

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:10 months

Owner:National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

NREL's ARIES DRTS can analyze and characterize electric grids in microseconds. They allow detailed modeling of hydro assets including hydrodynamics, turbines, exciters, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL). It allows the modeling of large-scale power systems such as regional grids with diverse generation technologies including hydropower. Plant level and grid level controls can be modeled in real-time. Plant-level models include governors, exciters, turbines, power converters, etc., whereas grid-level controls include energy management systems of varying complexities. These controls can be connected as controller-HIL for a rapid prototyping hence making them adoption-ready. It allows HIL of new and emerging enabling technologies for hydropower that enhance responsiveness to grids with high renewable energy. They can be connected to the regional scale power grid models enabling full characterization of novel controls for hydropower to provide advanced functionalities for evolving grids. DRTS are key to emulating thousands of power grid devices, creating precise digital twins of real-world environments at real-time steps. This capability supports a broad range of R&D activities, enabling thorough system analysis and validation across diverse energy systems. The ARIES DRTS cluster is the largest in the R&D environment. It includes the Power Electronics Grid Interface (PEGI) Platform consisting of specialized equipment that can be used in combination with other NREL assets for maximum adaptability. At the Grid-Edge, DRTS offers modular architecture of power & control interface for hydro applications for the evaluation of reliability and maintainability from component-level to system-level. This platform consists of Low Power Electronics Building Blocks (PEBB) device testing capability as Power-Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) and Control Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL), includes high fidelity rapid prototyping, device characterization environment of upcoming PEBB technology with high bandwidth (up to 10kHz) linear amplifiers (4 x 45kW in FY22).

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Core Competencies

The ARIES DRTS cluster provides the rapid prototyping environment that can enable an accelerated development of controls for advanced functionalities that hydropower assets can provide for grids with higher levels of renewable energy. Novel controls schemes that can evolve and adapt rapidly with the changing needs of the bulk and isolated grids are a key. DRTS capability is critical in understanding the role of hydropower including the provision of grid services including frequency and voltage support, emergency power, blackstart, etc. in real-time. It also allows HIL of new and emerging enabling technologies for hydropower that enhance responsiveness to the needs of grids with high renewable energy. At the grid-edge, the DRTS cluster includes 600 Low Power Grid Edge Devices, enabling running real-world communication protocols (expanding to 5000 devices by FY25). They include Advanced Metering Devices which are capable of emulating distribution systems through the use of an energy storage optimization toolbox and Real-Time Automation Controllers (RTACs).

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Capability Equipment Description

The ARIES DRTS cluster utilizes assets at both NREL's Flatirons Campus and ESIF. PEGI assets: 2 Megavolt-Amperes (MVA) Photovoltaic (PV) Inverter serves as controls research platform for grid-forming algorithms, response to abnormal grid conditions, etc., 2.5 MVA Synchronous Machine driven by a controllable dynamometer, simulates various prime mover technologies and acts as a representative device for conventional generation or as a synchronous condenser. Medium-Voltage Impedance Network (MVIN) emulates weak grid conditions between inverter-based resources and a large interconnected grid and enables evaluation of high-frequency grid interactions such as sub-synchronous resonance and unwanted plant controller interactions. Equipment-Under-Test Pad serves as a drop-in space for direct interface of partner equipment to PEGI platform (typical interface is 13.2 kV at 1-2 MVA).

 

Capability Background

1) Digital Twin for Hydropower Communities: The Digital Twin Technical System (DTTS) was used to establish a digital twin of multiple hydropower-rich communities to demonstrate the resiliency calculation of the community. 2) Evaluation of Battery vs. Pumped Hydro: Evaluation of battery storage versus pumped hydro under various dynamic conditions. 3) Integration of Hydropower: Integration of hydropower to maximize utilization using storage and thermal boilers was evaluated for an Alaskan community. 4) Scalability Analysis and Model Validation: Scalability analysis and model validation of AI/ML algorithms using real-world hydro data. 5) Advanced Metering Infrastructure Integration with Hydro Microgrid Community: Rapid prototyping of AMI load shedding to enhance community resiliency. 6) Design and Integration of MicroPhasor Measurement Unit (MicroPMU): Integration of MicroPMUs at a hydropower community to provide dynamic observability of the community via high-resolution MicroPMUs.

 

Applicant Information Needs

NREL will need the scale of simulation desired, data for emulation activities, and controllers for grid/grid-edge activities.

 

Investigate

Address

Arvada, Colorado 80007 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.nrel.gov/aries/capabilities.html

HyTN-16: ORNL Environmental Toxicology Lab, Tennessee

Capability TitleHyTN-16: Environmental Toxicity and Biodegradability Testing to Advance Marine and Freshwater Hydropower Operations

Biological and Aquatic Labs Toxicology, Biodegradability, and Bioaccumulation

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The Environmental Toxicology Lab (ToxLab) is equipped to test the toxicity (acute and chronic) and biodegradability of novel lubricants or other substances necessary for successful hydropower operation. These are two crucial components of the distinction of an "environmentally acceptable" compound according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The ToxLab has experience testing the acute and chronic toxicity of novel compounds to sensitive freshwater and marine organisms, both vertebrate and invertebrate. The ToxLab is also pioneering novel predictive toxicity frameworks that could be deployed in the field, allow for the extrapolation of effects observed on model organisms to threatened and endangered species, and facilitate the measurement of the ecological risk a compound poses to an aquatic community rather than to a single species. Lastly, the ToxLab has the capability to perform biodegradability testing with natural bacterial inoculums, to assess if a compound is “readily biodegradable” compared to reference standards.

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Core Competencies

The Environmental Toxicology Lab (ToxLab) is equipped to test the toxicity (acute and chronic) and biodegradability of novel lubricants or other substances necessary for successful hydropower operation and for distinction as an "environmentally acceptable" compound according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Environmental Toxicology Laboratory is equipped with incubators to house and maintain living organisms, as well as instrumentation to measure relevant water quality parameters. Organisms may be enumerated through a number of techniques including flow cytometry, fluorescence, and microscopy/imaging.

 

Capability Background

The Environmental Toxicology Lab routinely performs toxicity testing to examine the water quality from various facilities (e.g. sewage treatment plants, cooling towers) as well as for novel chemicals being used for the hydropower industry (e.g. lubricants, biofouling chemicals, etc).

 

Applicant Information Needs

Marine vs freshwater, details on compound or compounds to be tested; details on toxicity testing (acute vs chronic) or biodegradability testing.

 

Investigate

Address

Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.ornl.gov/content/environmental-toxicology-laboratory

HyTN-17: ORNL Vehicle Systems Integration Laboratory, Tennessee

Capability TitleHyTN-17: Evaluation and Integration of Hydropower System Components Through Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing

Electrical and Electronic Generator Performance Grid Integration/Hardware-in-the-loop Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

Assessment of the operational efficiency and functionality of hydropower generators up to 400 kW of electric power and 1 MW of mechanical load under dry conditions using twin dynamometers coupled through summing gearbox and an energy storage system emulator. Evaluate the performance and reliability of conventional and hybrid systems and components under test using hardware-in-the-loop simulations. Results will evaluate hardware performance and inform future design modifications for hydropower components/systems.

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Core Competencies

Extensive experience in hardware-in-the-loop research for transportation systems including heavy and medium duty engines and powertrains utilizing traditional and alternative fuels. Develop specialized test configurations to meet the unique requirements for partner components and systems objectives.

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Capability Equipment Description

2x 500 kW dynamometer (5000 rpm, 3750 Nm torque), 220 kW dynamometer (12000 rpm, 525 Nm torque), 400 kW battery emulater/load bank (60-800V, 600A max)

 

Capability Background

Multiple efforts to the development and demonstration of OEM and Tier 1 supplier powertrain systems using hardware-in-the-loop testing, including engines, transmissions, generators, electric motors and other vehicle components. Also, supported the development of various SAE Standards and EPA certification procedures.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Component under test specifications (mechanical and electrical requirements, engineering drawings, data acquisition requirements, experimental duty cycles).

 

Investigate

Address

Knoxville, Tennessee 37932 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.ornl.gov/content/vehicle-systems

HyTN-18: ORNL Grid Research Integration and Deployment Center, Tennessee

Capability TitleHyTN-18: Hardware-in-the-Loop and Control Hardware-in-the-Loop Laboratory for Dynamic Systems Modeling and Simulation Aiming Large Dynamic Systems Design, Control, Operation, and Diagnostics/Prognostics

Electrical and Electronic Grid Integration/Hardware-in-the-loop

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

Large hydropower plants or large numbers of interconnected medium or small hydropower plants integrated into the grid may need studies/analysis that require disturbances that may not be feasible in real plants. So, models that can replicate their and the grid dynamics and their interaction in real-time are key for the four main phases of those systems development and deployment: system design, control, operation, and diagnostics/prognostics for effective maintenance. The CHIL Lab in Grid-C can provide studies/analysis and solutions for the four mentioned phases.

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Core Competencies

The Grid System Architecture Group (GSA) and Grid System Hardware Group (GSH) have been synergetically working on projects in a variety of topics in renewable energy generation and integration to the grid including the development of equipment, system architectures, communication, control schemes, operation strategies, and diagnostics/prognostics algorithms. The complementarity of these two groups in designing and modeling, besides software, real-time, and hardware demonstrations of such systems, make them highly eligible for these voucher opportunities.

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Capability Equipment Description

At the CHIL Lab in Grid-C, there are 12 real time-simulators from the following vendors: . Seven (7) Opal-RT simulators . Four (4) Typhoon simulators . One (1) RTDS simulator This system can work individually or networked and is able to model and simulate over 10000 nodes.

 

Capability Background

The Grid Systems Architectures (GSA) and Grid Systems Hardware (GSH) groups are spinoffs of the former Power Electronics Systems Integration (PESI). Including PESI, GSA, and GSH, for the past 15 years, it has developed over 30 projects on the designing, developing, and deploying power electronics-interfaced resources for grid-connected systems. Research spans modeling and simulation, packaging, magnetics, hardware prototyping, system architecture, and integration, including solid-state, power electronics-based substation development, as well as real-time power electronics systems simulation. The group’s innovations support modern electric transmission and distribution system architecture, efficient integration of renewable energy resources, ultra-fast electric vehicle charging, smart home and building control systems, and other breakthroughs to ensure an advanced, secure, and resilient national grid system.

 

Investigate

Address

Knoxville, Tennessee 37932 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.ornl.gov/gridc

HyTN-19: ORNL Tribology and Surface Science Lab, Tennessee

Capability TitleHyTN-19: Tribology Testing and Surface Characterization

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Surface Resistance Friction Testing and Tribology Material Characterization

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The objective is to provide a bench-scale systematic evaluation of candidate lubricants and bearing/gear materials of the voucher recipient’s interest for advancing the efficiency and durability of waterpower turbomachinery. Tribological behavior is highly dependent on the operating/testing conditions, and thus the key in tribological evaluation is to identify/design appropriate tests with high relevancy to the actual application. In each voucher, tribosystem analysis is first conducted to understand the application needs and learn the critical attributes of the actual contact interface including the surface compositions, mechanical properties, and topography, lubricant viscosity and chemistry, temperature, contact pressure, relative motion, and velocity. Then, appropriate tribological tests including ASTM standards are identified and testing protocols are designed to best simulate the actual contact interface. A test matrix is then defined with at least 2-3 repeat tests at each condition. The lubricant viscosity and thermal stability, surface hardness and roughness, and the contact angle of the lubricant on the surface are measured before tribo-testing. The friction coefficient is monitored in situ. The wear loss is quantified using a 3D white interferometer and the surface damage is examined using optical and electron microscopes. Tribofilm characterization is used to learn the lubricant-surface compatibilities. Outcomes include the tribological performance of the candidate lubricants or materials/coatings of interest, side-by-side comparison with relevant commercial baselines, and mechanistic understanding. Monthly meetings are held between the ORNL team and the voucher recipient for work planning, progress update, and discussion. A final report is provided to summarize the testing results with scientific interpretation.

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Core Competencies

ORNL is a global leader in tribological evaluation of lubricants and materials/coatings and has developed four ASTM standard tribological tests. ORNL has a staff of technical experts and well-equipped tribology laboratories. The PI Jun Qu is a world-renowned tribologist with 20+ years of experience in developing, characterizing, and tribological testing advanced lubricants and coatings for various applications. He is a Fellow of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers and serves on the Board of Directors for Wear of Materials. He has published 3 book chapters and 140+ journal papers and received 11 U.S. patents in the field of tribology and surface science. In addition, ORNL has state-of-the-art materials characterization and chemical analysis facilities to support mechanistic investigation.

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Capability Equipment Description

Tribological testing in various wear modes, including sliding wear, rolling contact fatigue, abrasive wear (2-body & 3-body), fretting, tribocorrosion. Tests under well-controlled dry or lubricated conditions in ambient, vacuum, or controlled gas, at room temperature to 1000 oC, 0.1 – 1000 N load, 0.1 mm/s – 15 m/s sliding velocity. Capable of testing under boundary, mixed, and elastohydrodynamic lubrication, simulating the bearing and gear contacts in hydro or tidal turbines under wide operating conditions. More than 15 tribometers including PCS Instruments Micropitting Rig for rolling-sliding (simulating roller bearings and gears), Plint TE-77 reciprocating sliding (ASTM G 133 ball-on-flat), AMTI unidirectional sliding (ASTM G99 pin-on-disk), VLBT (simulating journal bearings and generating Stribeck curves), and Loop Abrasion tester (ASTM G 174). Lubricant analysis: viscometer (MINIVIS II), FTIR (Frontier LR 64912C), TGA (TA Instrument TGA-MS 2950 and DSC Q100), and contact angle meter (Dataphysics OCA 25) Multi-scale hardness measurements: Rockwell, Vickers and Knoop microindentation, and TriboIndenter nanoindentation Surface topography: Wyko NT9100 3D white light interferometer for wear quantification and Mahr 2D profiler for roughness measurement Surface morphological and compositional characterization: SEM, EDS, XPS, and FIB-aided TEM/STEM for worn surface and tribofilm characterization.

 

Capability Background

We have collaborated with the industry on many DOE projects with different mechanisms, including CRADAs, FOAs, and User/Voucher projects. We were part of the DOE EERE User Facility (High Temperature Materials Laboratory) from 2002 to 2012 and helped tens of companies with tribological testing and analysis. We also had a VTO-funded similarly structured Voucher project with Cool-X to test their diamond nanoparticles as candidate engine oil additives. In our on-going WPTO Sapling project, we are closely working with industrial partners on our lubricant development and recently submitted a joint application for the 2024 R&D 100 Award. For this Voucher program with WPTO, we have confirmed strong interest from two hydro companies, Kingsbury and Vbase Oil, as potential voucher recipients to pair with us. Kingsbury https://www.kingsbury.com/ is a leading manufacturer of fluid film bearings designated for hydro turbines and Vbase https://vbaseoil.com/ is a small business developing eco-friendly base oils.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Objectives, such as bearing materials development, lubricant development, or material-lubricant compatibility testing. The target application, basic information of the specific tribological system and contact interface (e.g., contact geometry and relative motion), and typical and extreme operating conditions (e.g., temperature, load, and speed). Non-proprietary physicochemical information of the materials (e.g., composition and mechanical properties) and lubricants (e.g., viscosity and chemistry) to be tested and characterized.

 

Investigate

Address

Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.ornl.gov/group/surface-engineering-and-tribology/about

HyTN-20: ORNL Modern Nuclear Instrumentation and Controls Laboratory, Tennessee

Capability TitleHyTN-20: Sensor Testing & Nondestructive Evaluation for Material Characterization in Hydropower Technologies

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Material Characterization Sensors and Controls

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:6 months

Owner:Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The objective is to advance nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques for characterizing advanced materials, including those used in additively manufactured components, critical to hydropower technologies. This includes advanced NDE for materials characterization, including characterization of additively manufactured components and sensor/instrumentation performance characterization for process monitoring in hydropower. ORNL's Instrumentation and Control Lab has significant capabilities in NDE of critical materials, including the design, development, and characterization of advanced ultrasonic sensors to enable long-term monitoring of integrity of traditional and emerging materials for hydropower applications, such as stainless-steel alloys, coatings, polymers, composites, and glass-fiber reinforced concrete. Additionally, the lab provides novel solutions for monitoring hydropower process parameters, such as flow rate and distribution, and data science applications for material property extraction from NDE measurements.

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Core Competencies

The lab boasts significant expertise in ultrasonic and nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques, sensor development, and machine learning integration. Dr. Pradeep Ramuhalli, leading the Modern Nuclear I&C Group, focuses on systems resilience, reliability, and the development of sensors and algorithms for continuous monitoring and diagnosis. His work emphasizes physics-informed ML algorithms and NDE for materials degradation assessment and remaining life estimation. Dr. Hongbin Sun, an Ultrasonic Engineer at ORNL, specializes in ultrasonic NDE for energy systems, sensor characterization, and structural health monitoring. He has over 20 publications, including seminal papers in top-tier journals. Dr. Ryan Meyer, a Research Nuclear Engineer, has a robust background in NDT reliability, condition monitoring, and prognostics for nuclear power facilities. His work spans ultrasonic, acoustic, electromagnetic, and optical techniques for degradation detection and characterization, with contributions to ASME Code standards.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Instrumentation and Control Lab is equipped with advanced sensing and testing systems for NDT&E research, including: - Polytec Laser vibrometer (PSV-500) for non-contact ultrasonic measurement up to 20MHz - RITEC SNAP5000 nonlinear ultrasonic system - RITEC RAM-5000 high power advanced measurement system with diplexers - Alamo Creek Engineering Resonance Ultrasound Spectrometer RUS008 - Keysight 33500B and Agilent 81150A function generator, E&I RF amplifier 1040, GA-2500A High power gated amplifier - LeCroy WaveMaster 715Zi-A digital oscilloscope - Tektronix MSO44 digital oscilloscope and Pico5444D digitizer - SRS lock-in amplifier and SRS560 preamplifier - Olympus ultrasonic transducers of various sensitivity and frequency bandwidths (250 kHz ~ 20 MHz) - National Instrument PXI chassis with various modules - HP high-performance workstation - Multiple Mellen NACCI furnaces - PolyK quasi-static piezoelectric constant meter with temperature control - Software: MATLAB, LabVIEW, COMSOL, Python/C++

 

Capability Background

Our research in nondestructive materials testing has a focus on characterizing elastic and electromagnetic properties of materials used in energy systems, including hydropower, especially after exposure to relevant operating conditions. Research activities also include nondestructive evaluation of materials fabricated using additive manufacturing, which is becoming increasingly important for modernizing hydropower infrastructure, to determine characteristics such as defect presence/distribution and mechanical properties (elastic modulus, hardness, etc.). These activities help to ensure that components can withstand the demanding environments of hydropower systems. Moreover, our technology has been successfully applied to characterize the health of energy storage (battery) systems, with potential applications in supporting energy storage co-location with hydropower facilities.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Information on component size and weight, materials used in fabrication or processing (including any hazardous materials exposure or contamination).

 

Investigate

Address

Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.ornl.gov

HyTN-21: PNNL Aquatics Research Laboratory Technology Characterization, Washington

Capability TitleHyTN-21: Characterization of Fish Passage Technology

Biological and Aquatic Labs Fish Behavior and Entrainment Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

PNNL's capability in Characterization of Fish Passage Technology is at the forefront of advancing hydropower technologies. Our state-of-the-art facilities and expertise enable comprehensive evaluation of fish passage systems to ensure safe and efficient migration of fish through hydropower structures. PNNL’s Aquatic Research Laboratory (ARL) is equipped to house a wide range of fish species, which allows conducting extensive live fish trials within a controlled environment. Additionally, the ARL can simulate a variety of water quality conditions, facilitating studies on how different environmental factors impact fish during passage scenarios. This capability ensures we can simulate real-world conditions and gather accurate data on fish behavior and survival during passage. We specialize in testing novel fish passage devices with live fish. Live fish testing can be coupled with our Sensor Fish technology to quantify and validate hydraulic conditions and potential stressors. This technology provides critical data on the physical forces fish experience during passage, aiding in the design of safer hydropower systems. Additionally, we apply previously developed biological response models to stressor information through tools such as the Biological Performance Assessment (BioPA), a CFD-based tool. This allows us to provide detailed insights into how fish are likely to respond to various hydraulic conditions. The deliverables for voucher recipients may include detailed reports on the effects of passage devices on fish, validated hydraulic data from Sensor Fish, BioPA analysis results, and recommendations for improving fish passage designs. These outcomes enhance the readiness of hydropower technologies and contribute to the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.

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Core Competencies

PNNL is a leader in hydropower research, with extensive expertise and experience in developing biological criteria for turbine and fish passage design. Our organization has conducted numerous pioneering projects and collaborated with researchers across the U.S. and globally, advancing our knowledge and capabilities in this critical area. Our approach integrates state-of-the-art testing facilities, such as the Barotrauma Testing Chambers and Fluid Shear Flume, to simulate and study the specific stressors fish encounter during turbine passage. Our studies have provided integral information that has led to the development of safer turbines. This enables us to develop accurate biological response models and provide science-based recommendations for hydropower facility designs. Through our collaborative efforts and cutting-edge research, we offer valuable insights and practical solutions to improve the environmental sustainability and operational efficiency of hydropower technologies.

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Capability Equipment Description

The ARL is a large indoor high bay facility with laboratory space and flexible configuration (7400 ft2 combined). - Over 50 m3 of circular tank space for holding fish, ranging from 2-6 ft in tank diameter. - Access to Columbia River water and ground water with extensive water quality controls including filtration, UV treatment, temperature (2°C -25°C) and dissolved oxygen control. - Ability to acquire, hold, and rear in and out of basin fish species (i.e. cold, warm, and tropical water species). Outdoor Facility: Shear tank - Rectangular fiberglass flume (9 m long, 1.2 m wide, and 1.2 m deep) - Centrifugal pump with a programmable electronic speed controller that can produce submerged jet velocities of water in excess of 20 m/s. Big Blue - Large volume static tank (7.3m x 3.0m x 2.5m, maximum volume 133 L).

 

Capability Background

PNNL has extensive experience in evaluating Fish Passage Technologies, having conducted numerous projects directly relevant to this work. Notably, PNNL examined Percheron's Fish Pass Helix, Natel Energy’s Center Sender, and Whooshh's fish passage device, assessing whether fish encountered stressors and evaluating the successful passage of fish through these systems. Additionally, PNNL has a rich history of evaluating fish passage injury and survival, providing critical insights for industry partners. Our work involves rigorous testing to identify and quantify potential stressors and suggest mitigation measures, ensuring the safe and efficient migration of fish through or past hydropower structures. This experience positions us as a leader in advancing fish passage technologies and promoting sustainable hydropower solutions.

 

Investigate

Address

Richland, Washington 99354 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.pnnl.gov/aquatic-research-laboratory

HyTN-22: PNNL Materials Aging and Detection Science Laboratory, Washington

Capability TitleHyTN-22: Characterization of Polymer and Composite Materials in Hydropower Technologies

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Friction Testing and Tribology Loading Testing Material Characterization

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The Materials Aging & Detection (MAaD) Science Laboratory performs aging and degradation studies on polymer and composite materials, including hydropower structures, seals, bearings, and other polymer components used in hydropower technologies. Our primary capabilities include material characterization, accelerated aging, and statistical analysis. In terms of material characterization, we perform mechanical (abrasion, fatigue, friction, flexural, tensile, hardness, indentation, and torque), chemical (activation energy, color, density, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy, haze, surface energy, and vapor transmission), thermal (differential scanning calorimeter, dynamic mechanical analyzer, thermogravimetric analysis/mass spectrometry), and electrical (dielectric spectroscopy, reflectometry, permittivity, and tan delta) studies. In addition, our laboratory also includes high-performance computing capabilities (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics) to perform simulation studies that are used to validate and correlate with experimental results. The MAaD Lab also has non-destructive examination (NDE) capabilities, such as electrical reflectometry methods, which have been used for condition monitoring of polymer-based mooring lines. With the expertise of our staff and extensive capabilities, we can perform studies on environmental effects (thermal, moisture, etc.,), accelerated aging, and determination of failure mechanisms of polymer materials and structures used in hydropower technologies, prediction of material lifetime, and establishment of regular inspection and maintenance intervals. The output of the MAaD Lab is typically a comprehensive report and data sheet summarizing the findings, along with statistical analysis and modeling (if relevant).

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Core Competencies

The MAaD Science Laboratory consists of experienced material scientists and technical staff who have expertise working on diverse projects related to characterization, aging, degradation, and NDE studies of polymers. Our work has focused on polymers within nuclear power plant electrical cables, irradiation of polymers for sterilization, polymer recycling, offshore umbilical cables, piston seals in hydraulic power take-off systems of wave energy converters, evaluation of the recyclability of thermoplastic composites used in tidal turbines, and online monitoring of synthetic mooring lines. The primary staff consists of Muthu Elen is a polymer material scientist and leads projects focused on degradation studies, recycling, and non-destructive evaluation of polymer and composite materials used in marine environments, and nuclear power plants. Mychal Spencer is a senior materials scientist and he leads projects with a focus on the non-destructive evaluation of polymeric materials.

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Capability Equipment Description

Mechanical: - Instron 3367 Mechanical Test Equipment (1KN, 30KN load cell, and 1 KN, 10 KN pneumatic grips) - Nanoindentation equipment - Torque equipment - Hardness equipment - LFPlus Chatillon Pull-out Tester (1KN loadcell with pneumatic grips) - Taber Abraser Model 5135 - Reciprocating Tribo Tester (used to determine wear rate, coefficient of friction). Chemical: - Agilent Cary 5000 UV Vis NIR - Bruker Alpha II FTIR - Bruker LUMOS II FTIR Microscope - Caron Environmental Chamber - Kruss Surface Analyzer - Optical microscope - Haze equipment - XRD equipment. Thermal: - Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Q200 - TA TGA 5500 – Mass Spec - Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) Q800. Electrical and NDE: - Omicron Lab Spectano 100 Dielectric Analyzer - Copper Mountain TR1300 Vector Network Analyzer - LIRA equipment - HV Diagnostics Tan Delta Equipment Computational software - COMSOL Multiphysics.

 

Capability Background

The MAaD Lab team has worked on several projects supported by the Department of Energy (DOE) Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO). Example projects include evaluating the durability of the polymer piston and rod seals used in hydraulic power take-off systems of wave energy converters, evaluating the recyclability of thermoplastic composite structures of tidal turbine blades, development of online monitoring methods to identify damage in mooring lines and evaluation of medium voltage umbilical cables that connect floating wave energy converters to subsea transmission lines. Through these projects, team members have interacted with various industry partners, surveying the needs for evaluation of the polymer materials in water power technologies.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The testing requirements such as accelerated test needs, sea-water tank testing, thermal tests, and other conditions that may need to be considered to replicate the real-life scenarios have to be discussed by the voucher recipient with the facility.

 

Investigate

Address

Richland, Washington 99354 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.pnnl.gov/accelerated-real-time-environmental-nodal-assessment-arena-test-bed

HyTN-23: PNNL Bio-Acoustics and Flow Laboratory, Washington

Capability TitleHyTN-23: Comprehensive Hydraulic and Biological Impact Testing for Hydropower Turbines and Other Hydraulic Structure at Full or Partial Scale

Hydraulic Fish Behavior and Entrainment Advanced Manufacturing Sensors and Controls Environmental Monitoring Turbine Performance Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:7 months

Owner:Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

Our facility offers advanced hydraulic testing capabilities for hydropower turbine designs and novel material constructions. We can conduct both full-scale and partial-scale testing to comprehensively assess turbine performance under the international standard IEC 60193. By utilizing our testing facility, hydropower technology developers can gain insights into the performance of their designs under realistic operating conditions. This enables them to identify and address potential issues early in the development process, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of their technologies. We also possess the capability to predict the biological impact of hydropower turbines, or other hydraulic structures, utilizing an autonomous sensor technology known as Sensor Fish (SF). The SF is a small autonomous device that uses multiple sensors to measure the physical stressors fish experience when passing through or around dams. The sensors provide accurate, physical measurements for acceleration, pressure, rotational velocity, and orientation, which convey what real fish may experience during downstream passage. The Hydropower Biological Evaluation Toolset (HBET) is used to analyze SF data. HBET relates data collected by field-based sensors (e.g., SF, acoustic telemetry) to biological response models for downstream fish passage at hydropower facilities. This information enables hydropower operators and hydropower turbine designers to the identify risks and physical stressors that may impact fish and come up with alternatives to improve biological performance. This comprehensive hydraulic performance and/or biological performance testing capabilities advances the readiness of hydropower technologies by providing crucial performance data, insights, and impacts, ultimately driving innovation and enhancing the adoption of efficient and reliable hydropower solutions.

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Core Competencies

At PNNL, researchers investigate monitoring and measurement strategies to minimize the impacts from hydropower on fish and wildlife. Through research, technology development, and collaborative partnerships, PNNL works to maximize environmental sustainability for existing and new hydropower facilities. PNNL experts in the fields of biology, population dynamics, behavior, data analytics, computational modeling (e.g., CFD), and mechanical/electrical engineering are helping the hydropower industry find solutions for fish passage. Mitigating fish passage around hydraulic structures is important for hydropower operations both nationally and around the world. PNNL has experience developing a turbine test loop to investigate the performance trade-offs for carbon fiber blades vs. stainless steel blades , as well as experience conducting field evaluations to investigate biological impacts.

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Capability Equipment Description

The facility outside Building 331 at PNNL features a comprehensive turbine test loop that is approximately 2 meters wide and 10 meters long. This loop includes a centrifugal pump, PVC pipes, a turbine runner, and a range of sensors for detailed performance and impact measurement. The pump operates at 2500 gallons per minute (gpm), with a head of 90 feet, 1780 revolutions per minute (rpm), and a pressure of 175 pounds per square inch (psi). To create a load on the turbine, options include a permanent magnet generator with a resistive load bank and a mechanical dynamometer. The facility is equipped with various measurement instruments, such as a flow meter, a differential pressure sensor, a tachometer, and a torque meter, to ensure accurate data collection. For conducting evaluations of biological performance, we have SF in different form factor. These include the standard cylindrical shape and a smaller spherical form factor, allowing for versatility in testing scenarios. This setup enables thorough hydraulic and biological impact testing of hydropower turbines and other hydraulic structures under a range of conditions.

 

Capability Background

PNNL is the inventor of the patented Sensor Fish technology, which has been successfully commercialized to facilitate widespread use. Sensor Fish has been deployed globally, to study potential impacts on various fish species, leading to numerous peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, PNNL has constructed a turbine test loop to evaluate performance trade-offs between traditional turbine blade materials, like stainless steel, and advanced blades made from carbon fiber composites3. This combination of innovation and practical application demonstrates PNNL’s expertise and capability in conducting research relevant to the described capabilities.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Hydraulic Testing: please provide estimated power of the turbine. Biological Testing: please provide minimum opening in the system to be tested (e.g., gaps between Francis turbine blades). For either testing please provide estimated flowrate required.

 

Investigate

Address

Richland, Washington 99354 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.pnnl.gov/bio-acoustics-and-flow-laboratory

HyTN-24: PNNL Multipurpose Stress Corrosion Testing Labs, Washington

Capability TitleHyTN-24: High Capacity Quantitative Measurement of Stress Corrosion Cracking Including Time to Initiation, Growth Rate, Fatigue Life, and Crack Growth Rate

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Surface Resistance Loading Testing Material Characterization Repair Methods

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The two labs were established to provide high fidelity, in situ measurement of time to initiation and crack growth rate in a variety of environments and loading conditions, including stress corrosion fatigue conditions. 21 test systems, each capable of testing multiple specimens at a time are now present to meet the throughput needs of the various clients. Testing is typically conducted in water containing-environments ranging from ultra-high purity water to saturated salt conditions. All of the test systems provide well controlled environmental conditions, and key environmental parameters are continuously logged to the test data file. Testing can be conducted in either fully realistic environments or in realistically accelerated environmental conditions, such as testing at temperatures above the prototypic operating temperature. Both short term, and long term tests are conducted with long term tests often dedicated to measuring time to initiation over periods of years and crack growth rates as low as 10 micrometers/year. These labs enable the hydropower community to evaluate the potential use of new, improved, or existing materials in aqueous environments where stress corrosion and stress corrosion fatigue are a concern. This could include testing of materials exposed to natural or artificial water environments. The most likely use for these labs is measurement of stress corrosion fatigue life or stress corrosion fatigue crack growth rate of materials to provide information to either estimate the life of existing components or provide data to design new components that will meet desired lifetimes.

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Core Competencies

For 20 years, the primary purpose of these labs has been to support the maintenance and growth of electric power generating systems, primarily nuclear power. The capability of these labs is built to provide accurate, high resolution data that are needed for the nuclear industry. We maintain the same approach for work conducted for other clients. The team currently consists of two senior scientists and multiple junior staff fully dedicated to these labs. Material and specimen characterizations are typically integral aspects of our research programs. The two senior researchers are degreed materials scientists. Material microstructure and specimen examinations are performed in labs in the same building. Our team and support staff are highly experienced in everything from optical examinations to high resolution electron microscopy examinations. We also conduct baseline mechanical property measurements such as hardness, tensile properties, fracture toughness, and fatigue behavior.

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Capability Equipment Description

The test systems are designed, built, and maintained in-house. All the test systems are based on a similar template that includes a rack that contains all the electronics such as data logging and test control devices. Load is controlled using servo-electric loading systems with cyclic loading frequencies up to 5 Hz. Each system has an environmental control system to control either aqueous or gaseous test conditions. Environmental chambers are built to conduct testing in either dilute chemistry conditions are concentrated chemistry conditions. Environmental conditions are actively measured and maintained at target values.

 

Capability Background

These labs were recently used to conduct corrosion fatigue life testing of materials in water environments to provide information needed to consider the adoption of water-filled hubs in hydropower systems. Upcoming work will look at the effect of river water environments on the corrosion fatigue behavior of selected turbine blade materials.

 

Investigate

Address

Richland, Washington 99354 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.pnnl.gov/

HyTN-25: PNNL Self-Lubricating Bushing Testbed, Washington

Capability TitleHyTN-25: Self-Lubricating Bushing Testing

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Friction Testing and Tribology Material Characterization Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:3 months

Owner:Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

PNNL’s Self-lubricating Bushing Testbed can be used to evaluate Self-lubricating bushings (SLB). It can also be modified to evaluate the performance of Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EAL)-based ones. Oil-free hub technology offers many benefits including environment-friendliness, reduced operation costs, and corrosion resistance for Kaplan turbines. PNNL will provide detailed friction and wear test data.

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Core Competencies

PNNL has designed and fabricated a SLB testbed for the Kaplan turbine at John Day Dam under the direction and funding from United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). Companion testing was conducted to validate the scaling approach and assess its suitability for the prototypic system. Accelerated testing affirmed that several self-lubricating bushings meet or exceed oil-bronze bushings for turbine blade trunnion friction and wear.

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Capability Equipment Description

SLB testbed includes mechanical, electrical, instrument & control, and supporting equipment that allows testing on bushings to meet the end-user’s requirements. The bushing size that can be tested is currently limited to 5-inch ID, 0.2-inch bushing wall thickness, and 3-inch length. With this bushing size and length, SLB bushing preload pressures of 6,000 psi with ± 1,000 oscillating pressures have been tested on SLBs, but system is capable of higher pressures of 7,400 psi with ± 1,000 oscillating pressure. The mechanical system is fatigue rated for long-term tests with accelerated force and rotation capabilities and active cooling to perform accelerated testing sequences. Rotational oscillation backlash is eliminated in the bushing measurement section of the test stand utilizing specialized components. Force loading achieve during current SLB testing is 90,000 lbf preload; oscillating load of ±15,000 lbf at 2 Hz; maximum force load capacity is 126,000 lbf. Rotation sequencing achieved during current testing sequences for coefficient of friction ranging from 0.1 – 0.3 (i.e. SLBs – bronze bushings) has been ±0.3° at 4 – 5 Hz for around 5 million cycles for each test. Rotational torques of up to 8,300 ft-lbs are available to overcome friction loads during testing with current configuration.

 

Capability Background

PNNL has designed, fabricated, and operated a self-lubricating bushings (SLB) testbed under the direction and funding from USACE. PNNL experience for the complete process from test design, data collection and processing, to scaling analysis for obtaining comparative performance results.

 

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Address

Richland, Washington 99354 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

HyTN-26: PNNL Biofouling Test Laboratory (BTL), Washington

Capability TitleHyTN-26: Testing Biofouling Resistance and Durability of Coatings and Materials Intended for Use in Harsh Marine and Aquatic Environments

Biological and Aquatic Labs Friction Testing and Tribology Material Characterization Biofouling

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:5 months

Owner:Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Capability Testing Objective

The Biofouling Test Laboratory (BTL) conducts quantitative assessments of paints, coatings, and materials with an emphasis on performance in aquatic environments. Biofouling resistance and physical durability are critical indicators that determine how long a surface will remain effective in a harsh aquatic environment. Biofouling resistance is measured by exposing samples to fouling organisms and then quantifying the amount of resulting biofouling using one of several methods developed by PNNL. Durability and materials characterization are performed using a variety of instruments that employ standardized test methods. Hydropower and marine energy capture technologies are, by nature, deployed in harsh environments with exposure to prolific biofouling species, intermittent or continuous submersion, and abrasion. Coatings provide critical protection that prolong equipment lifetime and minimizes maintenance. Development and testing of new and existing coatings will provide the data necessary for hydropower and other aquatic infrastructure stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding the choice of materials and coatings for deployment in aquatic environments. Performance data must be repeatable and quantitative, and the BTL is a world leader in developing quantitative biofouling assays for both freshwater and saltwater environments, as well as incorporating a suite of standardized test methods for the comprehensive physical characterization of coatings and surfaces. Voucher recipients will receive the following deliverables per their agreed upon testing plan: biofouling resistance (larval and adult mussel resistance, measured by number of organisms and byssal attachment strength, respectively), abrasion resistance, adhesion strength, hydrophobicity (contact angle, roll-off angle, and surface energy), coefficient of friction, and texture/surface roughness.

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Core Competencies

PNNL has conducted high quality research and development related to biofouling for over 15 years. We have served as DOE’s principal evaluator for materials and coatings destined for marine and aquatic environments. Our core competencies include: Biological Testing: Adult mussel adhesion: Measures tendency for adult mussels to attach to a surface and the force required to remove them. A good proxy for fouling by invasive zebra and quagga mussels. Mussel larvae settlement: Samples are exposed to a dense population of mussel larvae to measure the rate of settlement and attachment. Measures ability to prevent fouling at early stages of development. Physical Testing Adhesion: Adhesion strength of coatings to various substrates and primer coatings. Abrasion: Measures resistance to abrasion over many cycles. Hydrophobicity: Water contact angle, roll-off angle, and surface energy. Coefficient of friction: Measured using a force gauge, and standard surfaces. Surface roughness: texture and roughness characterized using 3D microscopy.

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Capability Equipment Description

Durability testing: Elcometer 1720 Abrasion & Washability Tester; Automated abrasion testing device; programmable cycles and linear stroke length Mark-10 ESM303; Force test stand Mark-10 G1086 COF fixture; Measures coefficient of friction (COF) Mark-10 Force Gauge (M7-05); Tension and compression up to 2.5 N Shimpo 1000N Force Gauge (model FG-3009); Tension and compression up to 1000 N Shimpo 10N Force Gauge (model FG-3003); Tension and compression up to 10 N Defelsko PosiTest® AT-A; Pull-off adhesion tester Hydrophobicity and other measurements: Rame-hart 590-U1, Model 590 Adv Automated Goniometer/Tensiometer; Measures water contact angle and roll-off angle Defelsko Positector Advanced Gauge Body; Interchangeable platform for interfacing with all Defelsko Positector brand measurement probes Defelsko Positector 6000 FNTS Metallic Dry Thickness Probe; Nondestructive paint thickness gauge Elcometer 3230 Wet Film Wheel Paint Thickness Gauge, 0 - 500 um; Wet paint thickness roller gauge Coating application: Sono-tek Exacta-Coat; Ultrasonic spray coating system Iwata Silver Jet; Light-duty low pressure compressor Master brand airbrush, model 2622; Airbrush Master brand nozzle set, model 2622-SET; Airbrush nozzles Neiko HVLP spray gun, 1.0 & 1.5mm; Paint spray gun Facilities: Chemistry/Materials Research Lab; Synthesis, application, biological cultures, measurement Aquatic Research Lab; Freshwater tanks, saltwater tanks, walk-in cold room

 

Capability Background

PNNL has been conducting the biofouling and materials tests described here consistently for the last 5 years as part of our efforts to develop commercially viable antifouling coatings for hydropower and marine energy. These efforts include collaborations with industry partners through the Technology Commercialization Fund. We have evaluated hundreds of samples and honed our experiments to yield high-quality repeatable results. Work in this area will continue with new efforts taking off in 2025. The team has authored 4 peer-reviewed journal articles to document our biofouling methods. Three more articles are currently in review or preparation. The team also has 6 patents related to biofouling detection and prevention.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The BTL must receive coating details such as chemical composition and application instructions, if coating is not applied by the voucher recipient prior to sending to BTL.

 

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Address

Richland, Washington 99354 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

HyTN-27: Sandia Distributed Energy Technologies Laboratory (DETL), New Mexico

Capability TitleHyTN-27: Distributed Energy Technologies Laboratory (DETL)

Electrical and Electronic Cybersecurity Generator Performance Grid Integration/Hardware-in-the-loop Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:National Laboratory

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:6 months

Owner:Sandia National Laboratories

Capability Testing Objective

The Distributed Energy Technology Laboratory (DETL) is a state-of-the-art hardware testing research facility to study grid integration of energy technology such as Photovoltaic (PV) inverters, Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs), energy storage system (ESS), wave energy converters (WEC), and hydropower systems. DETL is a multipurpose research facility designed to integrate emerging energy technologies into new and existing electricity infrastructure to accommodate the nation’s increasing demand for clean, secure, and reliable energy. The laboratory is highly configurable, it allows researchers to evaluate distributed energy resources (DER) and controllers such as inverters and other power electronics equipment under a wide range of conditions including irradiance variability, power levels and voltage and frequency regulation functionality in both grid-connected and microgrid configurations. Testing capabilities include scaled portions of utility feeders and the transmission infrastructure through Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) capabilities (including an OPAL-RT OP5707XG simulation platform).

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Core Competencies

DETL has been used as a platform to perform power hardware-in-the-loop experiments for different types of renewable energy systems. The PHIL platform at DETL has two electric machines couples through a mechanical shaft. One of the machines is used to emulate the energy resource to be emulated, which can be a wind turbine, a wave energy converter, or a hydro turbine. The other electric machine is used as the generator, which is connected to the power grid using a power converter. DETL has a set of residential inverters that can be used to replicate many load profiles from different residential communities. The residential inverters can be used to emulate the load characteristics of a given application. The laboratory has an electric energy storage system that can be used to emulate a wide variety of storage technologies with a rated power up to 100 kW.

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Capability Equipment Description

DETL has the capability to conduct tests on utility-scale equipment by using utility and surge simulators, high power waveform analyzers, and related test equipment that includes the following: - 180 kVA Ametek AC grid simulator RS180 - 200 kW Ametek TerraSAS PV simulator with up to 20 individual outputs - 100 kW high-voltage NH Research battery simulator - 48 kW low-voltage NH Research battery simulator - 280 kVA/225 kW diesel generator with gridinterconnection controller - OPAL-RT power hardware-in-the-loop system - Motor control center-based microgrid - 100 kVA, 30 kVA grid-forming inverters - 320 VA microinverter test bed - High-fidelity inverter model development and validation - Wind turbine physical motor-generator - IP-based communications emulator

 

Capability Background

DETL has been used for grid integration studies for PV systems, wind turbine generators, and wave energy converters. DETL is part of a program called TEAMER, which is a program that allows marine energy researchers to work with facilities to solve specific problems related to marine energy.

 

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Address

Albuquerque, New Mexico, New Mexico 87123 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://energy.sandia.gov/programs/electric-grid/renewable-energy-integration/distributed-energy-technologies-lab-detl/

HyTN-28: Davidson Lab, Stevens Institute of Technology, New Jersey

Capability TitleHyTN-28: Hydrodynamic Towing and Wave Tank

Hydraulic Surface Resistance Loading Testing Structural Integrity and Dam Safety Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:3 months

Owner:Stevens Institute of Technology

Capability Testing Objective

Davidson Laboratory’s towing tank at Stevens Institute of Technology serves as a large-scale hydrodynamic testing facility primarily designed for testing marine and offshore structures. Its unique capabilities, including towing model tests, can be leveraged for hydropower technologies, specifically for simulating real-world hydrodynamic forces and environmental conditions encountered by hydropower turbines and other structures. The tank provides a controlled environment to measure hydrodynamic forces, turbulence, and other parameters essential for optimizing turbine design and performance in low- and high-flow conditions.

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Core Competencies

The Davidson Laboratory has strong expertise in hydrodynamic testing, structural analysis, and flow visualization, and control co-design (CCD), which can directly support the testing of hydropower technologies. Specifically, the facility’s competencies in simulating various environmental conditions, including wave and flow characteristics, allow for the comprehensive testing of turbine designs, structural loads, and environmental impacts such as sediment transport and fish-friendliness of turbines. Control co-design, an integrated approach that simultaneously optimizes physical and control systems, is a critical capability of the facility. This allows hydropower developers to test turbine designs alongside the control systems in real-time to maximize efficiency, durability, and responsiveness to variable environmental conditions. The facility’s ability to simulate various flow regimes enables CCD testing that ensures optimal turbine operation and dynamic performance in a variety of scenarios, such as transient flow conditions and rapid load changes. These competencies are crucial for hydropower developers looking to test prototypes under variable flow regimes and optimize their performance while minimizing environmental disruptions.

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Capability Equipment Description

Davidson Laboratory is equipped with a state-of-the-art towing and wave tank that measures approximately 90 meters in length, 5 meters in width, and 2 meters in depth. The tank supports towing speeds of up to 20 meters per second and can generate waves up to 50 centimeters in height. This infrastructure is suitable for simulating riverine and oceanic conditions that hydropower installations might encounter. The equipment’s precision in replicating turbulent flow and sediment dynamics provides a comprehensive platform for hydropower developers to assess turbine efficiency, durability, and environmental impact, as well as optimize performance in both large-scale hydropower and distributed low-head hydropower settings.

 

Capability Background

Has been involved with DoE TEAMER network testing various Wave and Tidal Energy devices. Has been involved with numerous navy and industry ship model testing projects for over 75 years.

 

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Address

Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.stevens.edu/davidson-laboratory/facilities

HyTN-29: Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Engineering Laboratory, TN

Capability TitleHyTN-29: Hydraulic Testing and Instrumentation

Hydraulic Sediment Passage Water Passage Surface Resistance Material Characterization Geotechnical Applications Structural Integrity and Dam Safety Generator Performance Sensors and Controls Environmental Monitoring

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Federal Facility

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:3 months

Owner:Tennessee Valley Authority

Capability Testing Objective

The TVA Engineering Laboratory has the ability to generate flows in excess of 10,000 gpm through either our A-frame pipe system or our large flume. Additionally, space is available for construction and testing of large physical models. To perform this work we have a highly-skilled staff of over 60 electrical, mechanical and civil engineering/technicians as well as trades & labor staff.

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Core Competencies

Typical work currently performed at the lab include calibration of flow meters and flow tests on various pipes ranging from 25" down to 1.5"; hydrodynamic flow testing in a large flume; fabrication of piping structures and systems for use in cryogenic systems, flow modeling using SolidWorks, hydrothermal measurements in reservoirs and rivers; and various instrumentation projects at TVA dams/hydro plants - including turbine performance, geotechnical stability measurements, dye testing, in-situ flow measurements/calibrations and radio systems.

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Capability Equipment Description

(1) 250 HP pump, (2) 30 HP pumps, 200,000 gallon sump, 8'x8'x80' flume; A-Frame Pipe system capable of mounting 1.5"- 24" pipes for calibration and flow studies with (3) inline NIST-traceable Magmeters (3:, 6" and 14"). Fabrication shop with CNC, metal, wood and piping fabrication capabilities.

 

Capability Background

The lab has been performing hydraulic studies for TVA and for partner Federal Agencies for well over 50 years. We currently are working with Oak Ridge National Lab on a project testing a pilot-scale closed-loop pump storage system prototype utilizing our flow system and flume. We calibrate flow meters for our Nuclear fleet as well as other commercial entities. We do instrumentation projects across the Tennessee Valley at various TVA plants and facilities. Past physical modeling projects have included a lock study for the Army Corps of Engineers and numerous projects modeling TVA dams and structures. We perform hydro unit performance testing for all of our hydro plants.

 

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Address

Norris, TN 37828 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.tva.gov

HyTN-30: IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering, Iowa

Capability TitleHyTN-30: Large-Scale Circulating-Type Closed-Loop with a Large Sump Reservoir

Hydraulic Fish Behavior and Entrainment Sediment Passage Water Passage Generator Performance Turbine Performance Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:4 months

Owner:University of Iowa

Capability Testing Objective

IIHR will provide engineering and technical assistance on test setup and approach, including data acquisition and analysis. IIHR’s engineers can design and setup a flow loop for hydraulic testing of various hydropower technologies. Detailed measurements of flow rate, head, pressure fluctuations, velocity, and other flow parameters are possible. A technical report including the design, setup, approach, data, and results will be provided including CAD drawings, photos, and videos. Raw data files are available upon request.

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Core Competencies

IIHR has extensive experience designing and constructing physical hydraulic models and test facilities for municipalities, dam owners, private companies, and major hydroelectric public utilities. IIHR has constructed several large warehouse-sized models, including a 50 x 33 x 1.4-meter replica of the Columbia River gorge including the Wanapum and Priest Rapids dams. IIHR is known for its remarkable combination of practical experience and in-house modeling expertise (physical and computational) as well as field data collection. IIHR resources include a machine shop, carpentry shop, and electronics/instrumentation shop.

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Capability Equipment Description

The IIHR test loop includes all mechanical and electrical hardware that enables conveyance and monitoring of a uniform inflow of fluid from the sump, through the model, and back to the sump. Potable water is conveyed from the sump to the test loop through a one of three vertical turbine pumps each equipped with a variable frequency drive (VFD). The largest pump has an enclosed, stainless-steel turbine-type impeller with a 32-cm diameter and can run at a speed of 1760 RPM and producing up to 0.426-m3 of flow at 21.3 meter of head. Flow rate can be finely adjusted the VFD and/or control valves. A magnetic flow meter with an accuracy of +/-0.25% of the total flow measures the flow rate. The flow loop can be reconfigured with varying lengths and diameters of pipe to match the test unit.

 

Capability Background

IIHR performed experimental tests on a 1/8-scale prototype of a unique design hydroturbine/generator developed by AMJET Turbine Systems, LLC (ATS). The purpose was to evaluate the system’s hydrodynamic, electrical, and mechanical performance and to compare the laboratory results with numerical simulations for validation. The experimental tests provided a comprehensive performance map for the prototype-scale turbine. IIHR installed a test stand and built an instrumented test loop as a suitable test site. It took advantage of the facility’s large sump reservoir and its ability to support continuous testing with a circulating-type closed-loop model. IIHR also designed and provided the data acquisition hardware, LabVIEW VI, and engineering/technical assistance on the test setup and approach. IIHR’s other history of physical modeling includes the Cardinal Power Plant forebay, Priest Rapids Dam, Wanapum Dam, Thames Tideway Tunnel, St. Louis Sewer District, Hells Canyon Dam, Brownlee Dam, and Box Canyon Dam.

 

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Address

Iowa City, Iowa 52242 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

HyTN-31: Water and Energy Sustainable Technology (WEST) Center, Arizona

Capability TitleHyTN-31: Water Reuse Technology Accelerator

Biological and Aquatic Labs Sensors and Controls Biofouling Environmental Monitoring

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:University of Arizona

Capability Testing Objective

The WEST Center focuses on supporting physical testing of hydropower technologies and, more specifically, testing of technologies and/or methods that can limit water quality degradation at hydropower facilities within the Network. We can provide physical testing in laboratory environments including test sites for hardware prototypes from TRL 4 to TRL 6 or 7 and support the recipient with on-site technical, engineering, and scientific staff. We will also support the recipient with a state-of-the-art water quality testing facility for biological, physical, and chemical contaminants, including, but not limited to natural occurring viruses, indicator organisms, and emerging chemicals of concern. Further, we can support the recipient with life cycle and techno economic assessments of the tested technologies, with the objective of reducing costs and risks while improving performance.

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Core Competencies

The WEST Center is a one-stop-shop laboratory facility housing several principal investigators from an array of departments at the University of Arizona including chemical and environmental engineering, systems engineering, optical sciences, environmental sciences, and public policy. In addition, the center employs several full-time research scientists, engineering staff, and up to 30 postdoctoral associates and graduate students. Core competencies include water process engineering, advanced methods for water quality analyses, fate and transport of emerging contaminants, detection and attenuation of viruses and pathogens, process reliability and cybersecurity, optical simulation, PV design and fabrication, structure design and fabrication, and energy storage technology implementation.

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Capability Equipment Description

The laboratory complex is fully equipped with a molecular, microbiology, aquatic toxicology, and emerging contaminant laboratories. With its High-Bay complex, the WEST Center is also capable of accommodating intermediate-scale test equipment for water reuse and related technologies. The High-Bay is plumbed with tertiary treated wastewater from the adjacent Agua Nueva Water Reclamation Facility, available for use.

 

Capability Background

The WEST Center and the investigators engaged with it have a proven track record of funded research by several federal agencies, including but not limited to EPA, SERDP/ESTCP, RAPID Institute, ARPA-E, and the Army Corps of Engineers. Research topics include but are not limited to virus detection and quantification in aquatic environments, detection and removal of emerging chemical contaminants for water reuse applications, development of novel desalination and water reuse technologies, and development of new efficient direct solar/water treatment technologies.

 

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Address

Tucson, Arizona, Arizona 85745 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://west.arizona.edu

HyTN-32: SAFL Main Channel, Minnesota

Capability TitleHyTN-32: Development, Evaluation and Verification of Sediment Bypass Technology

Hydraulic Sediment Passage

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:9 months

Owner:University of Minnesota

Capability Testing Objective

This testing capability targets technologies designed for removal of sediment (silt, sand, gravel) from the reservoirs upstream of hydropower facilities in order to: 1) protect hydropower infrastructure, 2) preserve water storage capacity with the reservoir, and/or 3) provide continuity of sediment transport across the hydropower dam site. Included technologies may include sluice gates, valved pipes, or passageway located within a dam structure; barge-based or river-bank siphon or dredge technologies, or other mechanism for hydraulic-mechanical capture and transport of reservoir sediment material. The objective of this Capability is to provide the Recipient with access to large-scale physical experiments within the Main Channel Facility at SAFL. Dependent on the TRL level of the technology, experiments may target a range of outcomes. Lower TRL technologies may seeks R&D while more advanced technologies may seek near field-scale performance validation. The experiments may be configured in a number of ways to suit the needs of the technology. One approach may involve the Main Channel configured to simulate a reservoir environment and the resulting sedimentation within the reservoir upstream of the dam. For bottom outlet/sluice-type technologies, a dam section can be simulated with the outlet simulated. For barge-based technologies, a reduced-scale system can be simulated in the upstream pool of the facility. Experiments can be performed to simulate performance under a range of hydraulic conditions, river stage, sediment grainsizes and distributions, and extreme events such as impacts to the technology under heavy debris loading (e.g. ice and large wood).

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Core Competencies

SAFL is a well-established hydraulic research facility located in Minneapolis, MN. We operated as a cross-disciplinary research center involving university faculty and a large professional research staff. We often work with industry partners and support all levels of design, fabrication, experimental design, data collection, analysis and reporting. SAFL is located 15 miles from the MSP international airport. This Capability focuses on utilized the SAFL Main Channel, but there are several other smaller facilities that are also part of this offering. These facilities can be utilized in an early stage of the project to optimize the larger experiments within the Main Channel. Similarly, the expertise of SAFL staff can help optimize and focus the experimental plan. This capability is flexible to a range of sediment removal and sediment bypass technologies. SAFL’s approach will be to work with the Recipient to finalize an experimental plan to meet their specific technology objectives.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Main Channel has a dedicated precision data acquisition carriage that allows the user to deploy sensors, cameras or other technologies within the test section. A laser-line rapid topo-scanner system is also available on the carriage, allowing high resolution, real-time scans of both bathymetry and water surface. SAFL also has various sensors and data acquisition systems that can be utilized during the research project (e.g. velocity, turbulence, dissolved oxygen, underwater imaging and force sensors). SAFL has a large staff of professional research engineers and technicians that will be integrated into projects as needed. This team has deep expertise in hydraulics, fluid dynamics, sediment transport, experimental design, geomorphology, and ecohydraulics. Technical capabilities such as experimental design, fabrication, and data acquisition will be utilized to finalize a research plan that meets the specific objectives of the project.

 

Capability Background

Researchers at SAFL just completed a three-year project focusing on evaluation of a sand bypass technology designed for sand-bed river at hydropower facilities. Large-scale laboratory R&D using the Main Channel facility was critical to this project and highly relevant to the capability described here. Funding for this project was through the US Department of Energy WPTO, so the team is familiar with DOE funding, contracting and objectives.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The following is information SAFL would find helpful in the matching process: Overview of the technology along with schematic drawings, dimensions, and photographs/video. Description of the Recipient organization and biographical sketches or CVs for members of the project team that will interact with SAFL. Recipient’s stated objectives for the experiments. Recipient’s assessment of TRL level and how the Capability described herein would advance their technology. Description of any previous related research, modeling, experiments, or testing performed with the technology.

 

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Address

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnesota 55414 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://cse.umn.edu/safl

HyTN-33: St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, Minnesota

Capability TitleHyTN-33: Hydraulic Research, Evaluation, and Testing of Hydropower Components

Hydraulic Sediment Passage Water Passage

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:6 months

Owner:University of Minnesota

Capability Testing Objective

This Capability targets components of a hydropower facility that are seeking hydraulic (water) research, evaluation and performance testing. This Capability is for smaller and ancillary technologies that are not directly associated with the power generation aspects of the plant such as gate and gate control systems, debris management systems for wood and ice, trash rack technologies, recreational access designs, and hydraulic and environmental water quality monitoring technologies. In general, this Capability will involve designing experiments/tests to examine performance under a range of carefully controlled and monitored hydraulic conditions (e.g. flow rates, flow velocities, extreme flows, long-duration testing, head conditions, etc). The project will involve utilizing key facilities at the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, University of Minnesota. The objective of this Capability is to provide the Recipient with access to large-scale physical experiments within the Main Channel Facility and other facilities at SAFL. Dependent on the TRL level of the technology, experiments may target a range of outcomes. Lower TRL technologies may seek R&D while more advanced technologies may seek near field-scale performance validation. The experiments may be configured in several ways to suit the needs of the technology.

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Core Competencies

SAFL is a hydraulic research facility located in Minneapolis, MN. We operated as a research center involving university faculty and a large professional research staff. We work with industry partners and support all levels of design, fabrication, experimental design, data collection, analysis and reporting. SAFL is located 15 miles from the MSP international airport. This Capability focuses on utilizing the SAFL Main Channel and other facilities, depending on the needs of the specific project. In all cases, the projects will involve examining performance of the technology under a broad range of hydraulic conditions. A core competency at SAFL is our staff engineering team. This 15-member team possesses deep expertise in physical experiments and testing and can help optimize and focus the experimental plan. This team is also well-versed in renewable energy technologies.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Main Channel and modeling spaces have dedicated precision data acquisition carriages that allow the user to deploy sensors, cameras or other technologies within the test section. A laser-line rapid topo-scanner system is also available on the carriage, allowing high resolution, real-time scans of both bathymetry and water surface. SAFL also has various sensors and data acquisition systems that can be utilized during the research project (e.g. velocity, turbulence, dissolved oxygen, underwater imaging and force sensors). SAFL has a large staff of professional research engineers and technicians that will be integrated into projects as needed. This team has deep expertise in hydraulics, fluid dynamics, sediment transport, experimental design, geomorphology, and ecohydraulics. Technical capabilities such as experimental design, fabrication, and data acquisition will be utilized to finalize a research plan that meets the specific objectives of the project.

 

Capability Background

SAFL is a public hydraulic research laboratory where hydraulic experiments and research are the primary activities of the facility. Working with industry and private sector on the design and execution of hydraulic research and RD&D are common activities for our personnel. We have also been recipients of DOE WPTO funding, either as direct recipients or through subawards and are familiar with the technical, administrative, and project management expectations of this federal agency.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The following is information SAFL would find helpful in the matching process: Overview of the technology along with schematic drawings, dimensions, and photographs/video. Description of the Recipient organization and biographical sketches or CVs for members of the project team that will interact with SAFL. Recipient’s stated objectives for the experiments. Recipient’s assessment of TRL level and how the Capability described herein would advance their technology. Description of any previous related research, modeling, experiments, or testing performed with the technology.

 

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Address

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnesota 55414 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://cse.umn.edu/safl

HyTN-34: St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, Minnesota

Capability TitleHyTN-34: Hydraulic Research, Evaluation, and Testing of Hydropower Infrastructure

Hydraulic Sediment Passage Water Passage

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:9 months

Owner:University of Minnesota

Capability Testing Objective

This Capability targets hydropower technologies and components that are seeking hydraulic (water) research, evaluation and performance testing. A range of technologies can be considered in this Capability such as: turbines, control and conditioning structures, headraces, penstocks, tailraces, gates and other components associated with a hydropower installation. In general, this Capability will involve designing experiments/tests to examine performance under a range of carefully controlled and monitored hydraulic conditions (e.g. flow rates, flow velocities, extreme flows, long-duration testing, head conditions, etc). The project will involve utilizing key facilities at the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, University of Minnesota. The objective of this Capability is to provide the Recipient with access to large-scale physical experiments within the Main Channel Facility and other facilities at SAFL. Dependent on the TRL level of the technology, experiments may target a range of outcomes. Lower TRL technologies may seeks R&D while more advanced technologies may seek near field-scale performance validation. The experiments may be configured in several ways to suit the needs of the technology. Flow conditioning technologies, such as headraces, penstocks, and tailraces can be studied directly in the Main Channel facility under a range of discharge and head conditions. Detailed studies of fluid dynamics with conduits, pipes, draft tubes, can be supported on the SAFL modeling floors. Technologies associated with energy loss and energy dissipation such as spillways, stilling basins, chute blocks, etc. can be tested in the Main Channel under a range of headwater and tailwater conditions.

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Core Competencies

SAFL is a hydraulic research facility located in Minneapolis, MN. We operated as a research center involving university faculty and a large professional research staff. We work with industry partners and support all levels of design, fabrication, experimental design, data collection, analysis and reporting. SAFL is located 15 miles from the MSP international airport. This Capability focuses on utilizing the SAFL Main Channel and other facilities, depending on the needs of the specific project. In all cases, the projects will involve examining performance of the technology under a broad range of hydraulic conditions. A core competency at SAFL is our staff engineering team. This 15-member team possesses deep expertise in physical experiments and testing and can help optimize and focus the experimental plan. This team is also well-versed in renewable energy technologies.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Main Channel and modeling spaces have dedicated precision data acquisition carriages that allow the user to deploy sensors, cameras or other technologies within the test section. A laser-line rapid topo-scanner system is also available on the carriage, allowing high resolution, real-time scans of both bathymetry and water surface. SAFL also has various sensors and data acquisition systems that can be utilized during the research project (e.g. velocity, turbulence, dissolved oxygen, underwater imaging and force sensors). SAFL has a large staff of professional research engineers and technicians that will be integrated into projects as needed. This team has deep expertise in hydraulics, fluid dynamics, sediment transport, experimental design, geomorphology, and eco hydraulics. Technical capabilities such as experimental design, fabrication, and data acquisition will be utilized to finalize a research plan that meets the specific objectives of the project.

 

Capability Background

Researchers at SAFL just completed a three-year project focusing on evaluation of a sand bypass technology designed for sand-bed river at hydropower facilities. Large-scale laboratory R&D using the Main Channel facility was critical to this project and highly relevant to the capability described here. Funding for this project was through the US Department of Energy WPTO, so the team is familiar with DOE funding, contracting and objectives.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The following is information SAFL would find helpful in the matching process: Overview of the technology along with schematic drawings, dimensions, and photographs/video. Description of the Recipient organization and biographical sketches or CVs for members of the project team that will interact with SAFL. Recipient’s stated objectives for the experiments. Recipient’s assessment of TRL level and how the Capability described herein would advance their technology. Description of any previous related research, modeling, experiments, or testing performed with the technology

 

Investigate

Address

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnesota 55414 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://cse.umn.edu/safl

HyTN-35: St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, Minnesota

Capability TitleHyTN-35: Research, Evaluation, and Testing of Environmental Mitigation Technologies Designed for Hydropower Installations

Hydraulic Sediment Passage Water Passage Environmental Monitoring

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:9 months

Owner:University of Minnesota

Capability Testing Objective

This Capability targets environmental mitigation technologies designed for new or existing hydropower facilities. This Capability is for technologies that are not directly associated with the power generation aspects of the plant and can include fish deterrent or guidance technologies; water quality monitoring technologies (dissolved oxygen, temperatures, etc); fish elevators, hydraulic conveyance, or other novel fish passage technologies; or other innovation design to address environmental challenges associated with hydropower facilities. The project will involve utilizing key facilities at the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, University of Minnesota. The objective of this Capability is to provide the Recipient with access to large-scale physical experiments within the Main Channel Facility and other facilities at SAFL. Dependent on the TRL level of the technology, experiments may target a range of outcomes. Lower TRL technologies may seeks R&D while more advanced technologies may seek near field-scale performance validation. The experiments may be configured in several ways to suit the needs of the technology.

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Core Competencies

SAFL is a hydraulic research facility located in Minneapolis, MN. We operated as a research center involving university faculty and a large professional research staff. We work with industry partners and support all levels of design, fabrication, experimental design, data collection, analysis and reporting. SAFL is located 15 miles from the MSP international airport. This Capability focuses on utilizing the SAFL Main Channel and other facilities, depending on the needs of the specific project. In all cases, the projects will involve examining performance of the technology under a broad range of hydraulic conditions. A core competency at SAFL is our staff engineering team. This 15-member team possesses deep expertise in physical experiments and testing and can help optimize and focus the experimental plan. This team is also well-versed in renewable energy technologies.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Main Channel and modeling spaces have dedicated precision data acquisition carriages that allow the user to deploy sensors, cameras or other technologies within the test section. A laser-line rapid topo-scanner system is also available on the carriage, allowing high resolution, real-time scans of both bathymetry and water surface. SAFL also has various sensors and data acquisition systems that can be utilized during the research project (e.g. velocity, turbulence, dissolved oxygen, underwater imaging and force sensors). SAFL has a large staff of professional research engineers and technicians that will be integrated into projects as needed. This team has deep expertise in hydraulics, fluid dynamics, sediment transport, experimental design, geomorphology, and ecohydraulics. Technical capabilities such as experimental design, fabrication, and data acquisition will be utilized to finalize a research plan that meets the specific objectives of the project.

 

Capability Background

SAFL is a public hydraulic research laboratory where hydraulic experiments and research are the primary activities of the facility. Working with industry and the private sector on the design and execution of hydraulic research and RD&D are common activities for our personnel. We have also been recipients of DOE WPTO funding, either as direct recipients or through subawards and are familiar with the technical, administrative, and project management expectations of this federal agency.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The following is information SAFL would find helpful in the matching process: overview of the technology along with schematic drawings, dimensions, and photographs/video; description of the Recipient organization and biographical sketches or CVs for members of the project team that will interact with SAFL; Recipient’s stated objectives for the experiments; Recipient’s assessment of TRL level and how the Capability described herein would advance their technology; description of any previous related research, modeling, experiments, or testing performed with the technology.

 

Investigate

Address

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnesota 55414 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://cse.umn.edu/safl

HyTN-36: Multi-Axial Subassemblage Testing (MAST) Laboratory, MN

Capability TitleHyTN-36: Strength, Stability, and Serviceability Evaluation of Large-Scale Structural Components Including Complex Multi-Axial Loading Conditions

Mechanical, Material, and Structural Loading Testing Repair Methods Advanced Manufacturing Structural Integrity and Dam Safety

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:10 months

Owner:University of Minnesota

Capability Testing Objective

Resilient hydropower projects require that the underlying structural components satisfy safety, reliability, and sustainability requirements to ensure uninterrupted service and protection of surrounding communities. Innovations in the repair of aging components, such as dams and gates, and integration of modular components and printed concrete require physical testing to verify performance requirements. Given the catastrophic implications of hydropower facility failure, design investigations should consider testing at partial- or full-scale. These structural components are subjected to multi-axial load states, including gravity load and lateral loads due to water pressure or movement that induce axial loading, shear, and moments. Therefore, strength, stiffness, and durability should be evaluated under these conditions. The MAST testing system delivers large forces and displacements to the top of a full- or near full-scale test specimen with up to six spatial degrees of freedom (DOF). The applied forces can be configured to reflect the gravity load on the test structure while simultaneously imposing in- and out-of-plane deformations and demands to represent hydraulic or earth pressures. The quasi-static, multi-directional loading can be augmented by four ancillary actuators to apply loading or displacement demands at other locations on the test structure. The facility will work with the voucher recipient to develop the test and instrumentation plan to capture the required limit states. Test documentation, recorded visual media, and data will be provided to the recipients. The testing will inform the serviceability and strength limit states of the structural component, which aids the development of the technology along the readiness roadmap.

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Core Competencies

The facility contact, Dr. Lauren Linderman, is the Director of the MAST Laboratory and has been involved in management of laboratory resources including shake table systems and quasi-static testing within large-scale structural laboratories. She is a specialist in structural control and sensor development and deployment and monitoring. Dr. Steve Barbachyn, the manager of MAST and research associate, is a specialist in the design and experimental testing of large-scale structural systems and components. He has expertise in concrete structures, hydraulic control systems, electronic instrumentation, noncontact measurement technology, and knowledge of codes and standards. The laboratory has an excellent record of safety, on time and on budget project delivery for academic researchers, private companies within and outside of structural engineering, and governmental organizations. MAST fits into an integrated data-centric approach to experimentation, theory, databases, and model-based simulation, and uses a variety of tools for collaboration.

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Capability Equipment Description

MAST is a large-scale structural testing system that applies loads and deformations through six-degree of-freedom (DOF) control. The multi-degree-of-freedom loading can be applied via quasi-static hybrid testing or ramp and hold control. Imposed loads are resisted by an L-shaped strong wall–strong floor system. Its advanced control system features a set of large-capacity hydraulic bearings to minimize friction as the load is applied through eight servo-controlled hydraulic actuators attached to a rigid steel crosshead. MAST can simultaneously apply up to ±1.3 million pounds of load in the vertical direction and up to ±880k in the horizontal orthogonal directions with maximum deformations of ±20 in. and ±16 in. in the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively. Structural subassemblages as large as 20 ft. by 20 ft. in plan and 28.8 ft. in height can be accommodated with the option to rotate the control geometry to test larger structures on a diagonal 12ft. x 36 ft. in plan. Four ±220k ancillary actuators with ±10 in. stroke enables further testing protocol customization. Each of the ancillary actuators can be independently controlled by user-specified load or displacement targets or be slaved to another ancillary actuator or MAST DOF.

 

Capability Background

In 2022, the University of Minnesota Multi-Axial Subassemblage Testing (MAST) Laboratory completed testing of a reduced-scale portion of a wind turbine tower base structure using six-degree-of freedom (6DOF) control technology for the University of Notre Dame. The funding for the University of Notre Dame project was partially provided through a Department of Energy grant. Like the proposed work, the project evaluated the performance of a novel structure built using additive manufacturing techniques by conducting a series of serviceability- and ultimate-limit state tests under various load combinations before testing the tower to failure. MAST 6DOF control was used to impose the prescribed axial force, shear, moment, and torsion for each test. Both displacement and force control modes were used during testing as required by the researchers and project goals.

 

Applicant Information Needs

The facility needs information on test specimen scale and fixture needs to interface with the MAST crosshead.

 

Investigate

Address

Minneapolis, Minnesota, MN 55455 

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://mastlab.umn.edu/

HyTN-37: Water Infrastructure Laboratory, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee

Capability TitleHyTN-37: Laboratory and Bench Testing

Hydraulic Fish Behavior and Entrainment Sediment Passage Water Passage Surface Resistance Friction Testing and Tribology Sensors and Controls Biofouling Environmental Monitoring Toxicology, Biodegradability, and Bioaccumulation Turbine Performance Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Academic

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:12 months

Owner:University of Tennessee Knoxville

Capability Testing Objective

Our lab is equipped with two state-of-the-art recirculating sediment flumes and advanced flow measurement systems. The flume, measuring 10 meters in length and 60 cm in width, can deliver a flow rate of up to 1200 gallons per minute (gpm), enabling the simulation of various hydrodynamic conditions essential for testing and validating hydropower technologies. Our tomographic Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) systems, equipped with a high-energy pulsed laser and a 12 MP camera capable of time-resolved measurements at 90 Hz, provide high-resolution, three-dimensional flow visualization and analysis. This testing capability will advance the readiness of hydropower technologies by providing precise data on fluid dynamics, sediment transport, and turbine performance under different flow conditions. The outcomes include improved design efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced operational reliability of hydropower systems. Specific deliverables to voucher recipients will include detailed flow analysis reports, validated hydrodynamic models, and recommendations for technology optimization. By leveraging our advanced measurement capabilities, we aim to support the development of innovative hydropower solutions, accelerating their deployment and integration into the energy market.

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Core Competencies

Our lab specializes in advanced hydrodynamic testing and analysis, focusing on innovative solutions for hydropower development. We have extensive expertise in fluid dynamics, sediment transport, and environmental impact assessment, supported by a team of experienced researchers and engineers. Our laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge tools, including a high-capacity recirculating sediment flume and sophisticated tomographic PIV and PLIF systems. These enable robust, time-resolved measurements and simulations of hydropower conditions. Our approach emphasizes collaboration with industry partners, leveraging our capabilities to optimize turbine designs, improve energy efficiency, and mitigate environmental impacts. We provide comprehensive testing services, from conceptual design validation to performance optimization. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability ensures that voucher recipients benefit from tailored solutions that accelerate the commercialization of hydropower technologies, fostering their successful integration into the renewable energy landscape.

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Capability Equipment Description

Our facility is equipped with advanced instrumentation designed for comprehensive hydrodynamic analysis and testing. The centerpiece is our hydraulic testing bed, including two recirculating sediment flumes, measuring 10 meters in length and 60 cm in width, capable of flow rates ranging from 100 to 1200 gallons per minute. This flume enables precise simulation of a wide range of hydropower conditions and sediment transport scenarios. We utilize a tomographic Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) system, which includes a high-energy pulsed laser and a 12 MP camera, capable of capturing time-resolved measurements at a frequency of 90 Hz. This system provides high-resolution, three-dimensional flow data, critical for validating hydrodynamic models and optimizing turbine designs. Additionally, our Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) system allows for detailed visualization and analysis of flow transport and mixing patterns. The equipment is configured to handle various operating conditions, ensuring adaptability to diverse testing requirements. Our lab is equipped with advanced data acquisition and analysis tools, ensuring that our measurements are both accurate and comprehensive. These capabilities provide voucher recipients with the detailed insights needed to enhance the development and deployment of innovative hydropower technologies.

 

Capability Background

Our organization has a strong track record in advancing hydropower technology through both research and industry collaboration. We have successfully completed several projects focused on optimizing turbine designs and improving energy efficiency. Notably, we partnered with Oak Ridge National Lab to develop and test a new flexible turbine model, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, our team has contributed to projects funded by the Tennessee and Florida Department of Transportation, focusing on sediment transport dynamics and their implications for hydropower systems. These efforts have led to improved predictive models and enhanced design methodologies. Our facility’s capabilities in fluid dynamics and environmental impact assessment have been instrumental in supporting these projects, demonstrating our commitment to innovation and sustainability. Our proven expertise and collaborative approach make us well-suited to contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge hydropower technologies.

 

Applicant Information Needs

To ensure a successful matching process, we require voucher recipients to provide detailed project proposals outlining their objectives, specific testing needs, and desired outcomes. This includes information on the hydropower technologies being developed and any particular testing conditions or parameters needed. Recipients should also provide their timeline and any data requirements for analysis and reporting. Additionally, recipients must comply with our facility's safety protocols and provide necessary documentation for access, such as identification and proof of compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. This information will help us tailor our resources and support to meet their project needs effectively.

 

Investigate

Address

Knoxville, Tennessee 37916 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://psilab.utk.edu/

HyTN-38: Closed Loop Recirculating Turbine Performance Test Facility, Massachusetts

Capability TitleHyTN-38: Closed Loop Recirculating Turbine Performance Test Facility

Hydraulic Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:8 months

Owner:Verdantas

Capability Testing Objective

The testing objective will be to evaluate the performance of a hydropower turbine within a closed loop recirculating test facility. Depending on the turbine size and facility limitations, the turbine may be modeled and scaled using affinity laws and guidelines. Performance testing of either a full- or model-scale turbine will be conducted over a range of head and flow conditions. At a minimum, head and flow measurements will be collected for each test condition and are assuming voucher recipients will measure torque and turbine speed with their instrumentation. Testing will be performed in accordance with American Society of Mechanical Engineers Performance Test Code on Hydraulic Turbines (ASME PTC 18-2002). Collected data will be analyzed to determine the efficiency and power of the turbine. If a model-scale turbine, this information will then be scaled-up to provide an estimate of full-scale prototype turbine performance. In addition, an uncertainty analysis will be performed to provide the overall uncertainty in reported efficiency and power.

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Core Competencies

Founded in 1894, Alden Research Laboratory (now Verdantas) began as an academic laboratory and is the oldest continuously operating hydraulic laboratory in the United States. Verdantas has been a recognized leader in the hydropower industry and the field of fluid dynamics consulting, research, and development. From the early days of hydropower, Verdantas has been on the forefront of research and development, having invented the Alden Absorption Dynamometer (i.e., a friction brake) to measure torque output of water wheels and turbines. In 1996, Verdantas, along with the US DOE and EPRI, developed a fish-friendly turbine with greater than 90% efficiency and fish mortality of ≤ 5%. Currently, Verdantas provides independent testing of emerging hydrokinetic and innovative turbine technologies. This long history of expertise has made Verdantas a leader in environmental mitigation, hydraulic modeling for engineering and biological performance, flow measurements and turbine performance testing in support of the hydropower industry.

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Capability Equipment Description

Test Loop Piping Length Range: Variable Piping Diameter Range: 2-inch to 12-inch, larger diameters available dependent on design Head and Flow Rate: 19 cfs at 6 ft of head to 5 cfs at 36 ft Pumps (if available): Goulds 3420: 17,000 gpm at 68 ft of head Worthington: 1,700 gpm at 46 ft of head Others Available depending on conditions needed Tailwater Tank: 4 ft W x 25 ft L x 10 ft D - 7,300 gallons 8 ft W x 20 ft L x 5 ft D – 5,600 gallons Others Available depending on conditions needed Flow Meter: Venturi meters and orifice plate meters available Head Measurement Instrumentation: Rosemount differential pressure transmitters Hoisting Equipment: Fork truck up to 10,000 lbs. capacity available

 

Capability Background

The Verdantas engineering team has evaluated turbines for engineering performance testing both in the laboratory and field. The team provides the highest standard for performance measurements of turbines, applying the various code accepted methods of flow and power measurements. Recent laboratory performance testing includes hydropower turbines and hydrokinetic turbines for confidential clients.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Is this a full-scale turbine or a scaled unit? If scaled unit, what is the scale? Design head and flow for the turbine. Inlet and outlet orientation and dimensions. The voucher recipient’s testing objectives and goals. Specifications on instrumentation the voucher recipient will provide/use for testing? How does the voucher recipient plan on controlling the load on the turbine? Will a load bank be needed?

 

Investigate

Address

Holden, Massachusetts 01520 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.verdantas.com/

HyTN-39: Building 6 Steel Recirculating Test Flume, Massachusetts

Capability TitleHyTN-39: Fish Passage Survival and Behavior Steel Testing Flume Facility

Biological and Aquatic Labs Fish Behavior and Entrainment Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:5 months

Owner:Verdantas

Capability Testing Objective

The testing objective will be the evaluation of a technology related to fish passage and/or fish behavior that could be installed at a hydropower project. The technology would be deployed within a large recirculating water flume, configured to meet test objective(s). Testing will focus on determining the effects of the technology on up to two fish species, possibly with different size classes, evaluated under multiple operational and/or flow velocity conditions. Specific evaluation criteria will be dependent on the technology evaluated and may include, but not limited to, estimates of survival, injury, passage or bypass efficiency, entrainment, impingement and/or behavioral guidance/deterrence. Testing will consist of multiple treatment trials during which known numbers of fish will be released into or within the vicinity of the technology and then collected from the test flume. During each treatment trial the technology will be set to an operating condition and/or the flume set to a flow velocity condition. Depending on the agreed upon objectives and scope, along with budget constraints, fish may be tagged (i.e., PIT) and/or filmed with underwater cameras to provide additional information about their behaviors and movement. Data from the trials will be analyzed and summarized in a report that will include the test facility design and operation, methodology, and results. Raw data can be provided to the voucher recipient if requested. Results and data gathered from this evaluation could aid in demonstrating to local and federal agencies that a technology meets fish passage regulatory requirements within the hydropower industry.

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Core Competencies

Verdantas is a recognized leader in the field of fish passage design, research and development. Our team of fish passage engineers, hydraulic modelers and fisheries biologists specialize in addressing upstream and downstream fish passage challenges related to dams and hydropower projects. Our fisheries biologists and engineers have conducted numerous laboratory studies to evaluate fish passage/bypass guidance technologies and turbine blade strike within our test flumes and custom fabricated test facilities. These evaluations have included custom bar rack bypass structures for hydropower operators, turbine entrainment survival for DOE, electrical and flow behavioral guidance for the Electric Power Research Institute, and innovative passage technologies for vendors such as Fishheart and Whooshh. The approach during these evaluations, as it would be for a voucher recipient opportunity, is to design a test plan which will provide proof-of-concept information and data to help advance the technology to the pilot-phase or a commercially ready stage.

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Capability Equipment Description

Test Flume: 60-ft L x 6-ft W x 7-ft H (55,000 gallons) Test Flow Rate: 0-120 cfs (0-3 ft/s) Power: 115 V single phase to 480 V 3 Phase Fish Holding System: 5 – 420 gal and 3 – 235 gal tanks with a total system volume of approximately 5,000 gallons. Each holding tank is supplied with a continuous flow of 4 to 7 gpm from a 5-hp pump and ambient air pumped through air stones by a 1-hp blower. System water is filtered through a series of coarse mesh bag filters to remove any heavy solids and waste products prior to passing through four FSI 25-micron bag filtration units, four 57-watt ultraviolet sterilization units, two activated carbon filtration units, and a 60-gallon bio-filtration tank. A chiller unit and submersible heaters are used to maintain optimum temperatures for the species and life stages being held. Up to 6 Advanced Security Underwater infrared cameras (IP68) and DVR system Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) Biomark IS1001 Receiver.

 

Capability Background

The Verdantas team of fisheries scientists and engineers is recognized for developing and evaluating fish protection systems and upstream and downstream fish passage facilities. Verdantas has extensive experience in numerical and physical modeling, fish passage design, and lab and field evaluations of fish passage biological and engineering performance. The diverse skills, facilities and services provided are unique to the industry and foster an environment in which innovative ideas and designs can be efficiently developed and evaluated. Verdantas’ evaluation and development of fish passage and protection technologies often includes live fish in test flumes to identify optimum design and operational criteria for minimizing injury and mortality and improving fish passage efficiency. Verdantas staff has also conducted field evaluations of fish passage technologies using various sampling methods and has completed numerous hydraulic studies and designs of upstream and downstream fish passage facilities that have been installed at hydro and non-hydro dams.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Details on the technology and the voucher recipient's goals/objectives for testing.

 

Investigate

Address

Holden, Massachusetts 01520 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.verdantas.com/

HyTN-40: Taft Fisheries Research and Testing Facility Recirculating Flume, Massachusetts

Capability TitleHyTN-40: Fish Passage Survival and Behavior Taft Fisheries Research and Testing Facility Recirculating Flume

Biological and Aquatic Labs Fish Behavior and Entrainment Fish Passage Survival

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:6 months

Owner:Verdantas

Capability Testing Objective

The testing objective will be to evaluate a technology related to fish passage and/or fish behavior for potential installation at a hydropower project. The technology would be deployed within a large recirculating water flume, configured to meet test objective(s). Testing will focus on determining the effects of the technology on up to three fish species at one or more size classes, evaluated under multiple operational and/or flow velocity conditions. Specific evaluation criteria will be dependent on the technology evaluated and may include, but not limited to, estimates of survival, injury, passage or bypass efficiency, entrainment, impingement and/or behavioral guidance/deterrence. Testing will consist of multiple treatment trials during which known numbers of fish will be released into or within the vicinity of the technology and then collected from the test flume. During each treatment trial the technology will be set to an operating condition and/or the flume set to a flow velocity condition. Depending on the agreed upon objectives and scope, along with budget constraints, fish may be tagged (i.e., PIT) and/or filmed with underwater cameras to provide additional information about their behaviors and movement. Data from the trials will be analyzed and summarized in a report that will include the test facility design and operation, methodology, and results. Raw data can be provided to the voucher recipient if requested. Results and data gathered from this evaluation could aid in demonstrating to local and federal agencies that a technology meets fish passage regulatory requirements within the hydropower industry.

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Core Competencies

Verdantas is a recognized leader in the field of fish passage design, research and development. Our team of fish passage engineers, hydraulic modelers and fisheries biologists specialize in addressing upstream and downstream fish passage challenges related to dams and hydropower projects. Our fisheries biologists and engineers have conducted numerous laboratory studies to evaluate fish passage/bypass guidance technologies and turbine blade strike within our test flumes and custom fabricated test facilities. These evaluations have included custom bar rack bypass structures for hydropower operators, turbine entrainment survival for DOE, electrical and flow behavioral guidance for the Electric Power Research Institute, and innovative passage technologies for vendors such as Fishheart and Whooshh. The approach during these evaluations, as it would be for a voucher recipient opportunity, is to design a test plan which will provide proof-of-concept information and data to help advance the technology to the pilot-phase or a commercially ready stage.

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Capability Equipment Description

Test Flume: 80-ft L x 20-ft W x 10-ft D (200,000 gallons) Test Flow Rate: 0- 500 cfs at 8-ft water depth – Full width: 0-3 ft/s; 8 ft restricted channel: 0-7 ft/s Power: 115 V, 230 V- 3 Phase and 480 V- 3 Phase Hoisting Lift Capacity: 10 tons Fish Holding System: 7 – 420 gal and 18 – 235 gal tanks with a total system volume of approximately 10,000 gallons. Each holding tank is supplied with a continuous flow of 4 to 7 gpm from a 10-hp pump and ambient air pumped through air stones by a 1 hp blower. System water is filtered through a series of coarse mesh bag filters to remove any heavy solids and waste products prior to passing through three Aquadyne bead filters, eight FSI 25-micron bag filtration units, two 400-watt Aqua Viper Series ultraviolet sterilization units, two activated carbon filtration units, and two 225-gallon bio-filtration tanks. A chiller unit and submersible heaters are used to maintain optimum temperatures for the species and life stages being held. Up to 6 Advanced Security Underwater infrared cameras (IP68) and DVR system Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) Biomark IS1001 Receiver

 

Capability Background

The Verdantas team of fisheries scientists and engineers is recognized for developing and evaluating fish protection systems and upstream and downstream fish passage facilities. Verdantas has extensive experience in numerical and physical modeling, fish passage design, and lab and field evaluations of fish passage biological and engineering performance. The diverse skills, facilities and services provided are unique to the industry and foster an environment in which innovative ideas and designs can be efficiently developed and evaluated. Verdantas’ evaluation and development of fish passage and protection technologies often includes live fish in test flumes to identify optimum design and operational criteria for minimizing injury and mortality and improving fish passage efficiency. Verdantas staff has also conducted field evaluations of fish passage technologies using various sampling methods and has completed numerous hydraulic studies and designs of upstream and downstream fish passage facilities that have been installed at hydro and non-hydro dams.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Details on the technology and the voucher recipient’s goals/objectives for testing.

 

Investigate

Address

Holden, Massachusetts 01520 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.verdantas.com/

HyTN-41: Charles M. Allen High Reynolds Number Facility, Massachusetts

Capability TitleHyTN-41: Verdantas Capabilities Using Gravimetric Flow Measurement and Master Meter Method for ISO/IEC 17025, EPA, NIST, Turbine, and Custom Setup Testing

Hydraulic Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:4 months

Owner:Verdantas

Capability Testing Objective

The testing objective will be to establish the performance of a hydropower turbine within a closed conduit pipeline; both free discharge and outlet piping can be considered. Depending on the flow rates and pipeline diameter, both full size and scaled turbines can be tested. As a well-established facility, the test methods and established procedures provide a high level of confidence and low level of risk for flow, pressure, and temperature measurements. As an ISO accredited facility, official measurement uncertainties will be included in the final report along with turbine performance. Flow rate, pressure, and temperature measurements will be recorded by Verdantas. Depending on the voucher recipient’s testing objectives and available instrumentation, Verdantas can coordinate and aid in the measurement of other parameters.

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Core Competencies

Founded in 1894, Alden Research Laboratory (now Verdantas) began as an academic laboratory and is the oldest continuously operating hydraulic laboratory in the United States. Verdantas has been a recognized leader in the hydropower industry and the field of fluid dynamics consulting, research, and development. From the early days of hydropower, Verdantas has been on the forefront of research and development, having invented the Alden Absorption Dynamometer (i.e., a friction brake) to measure torque output of water wheels and turbines. In 1996, Verdantas, along with the US DOE and EPRI, developed a fish-friendly turbine with greater than 90% efficiency and fish mortality of ≤ 5%. Currently, Verdantas provides independent testing of emerging hydrokinetic and innovative turbine technologies. This long history of expertise has made Verdantas a leader in environmental mitigation, hydraulic modeling for engineering and biological performance, flow measurements and turbine performance testing in support of the hydropower industry.

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Capability Equipment Description

The Allen facility contains four test lines that accommodate pipes from ½ inch up to 48 inches. Lines one and two both use two electrically driven centrifugal pumps, each with 300 horsepower, to generate the maximum flow of 20,000 gpm and a max head of ~60 psi. These two lines can fit pipes with diameters between 8 and 48 inches. Test lines three and four use one pump, with 300 horsepower, to generate a max flow of ~4,500 gpm, and a max head of ~150 psi. Line three can fit pipes from 2 to 10 inches in diameter, while line four can fit pipes from ½ inch to 8 inches. The pumps are driven with variable frequency drivers that allow control of the pump’s revolutions per minute. Flow is measured by the gravimetric method using a tank mounted on scales having capacities of 1,000, 10,000 and 100,000 pounds. Temperature is acquired through RTD thermometers that are in line during each test. Pressure is measured with Smart differential pressure transmitters having a range of 250 inches of water column, 1,000 inches of water column and 100 psi with a calibrated accuracy of 0.2% of reading or better.

 

Capability Background

Roughly 200-500 tests are performed annually in the Allen facility. These tests include flow meters, turbines, valves, strainers, pumps, elbows, filters, and head loss characteristics for specialized equipment.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Is this a full-scale turbine or a scaled unit? If scaled unit, what is the scale? Design head and flow for the turbine. Inlet and outlet orientation and dimensions. The voucher recipient’s testing objectives and goals. Specifications on instrumentation the voucher recipient will provide/use for testing? How does the voucher recipient plan on controlling the load on the turbine? Will a load bank be needed?

 

Investigate

Address

Holden, Massachusetts 01520 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.verdantas.com/

HyTN-42: Hooper Facility, Massachusetts

Capability TitleHyTN-42: Verdantas Capabilities Using Gravimetric Flow Measurement and Master Meter Method for ISO/IEC 17025, EPA, NIST, Turbine, and Custom Setup Testing

Hydraulic Turbine Performance

Options: National Laboratory, Federal Facility, Academic, PrivateFacility Type:Private

Duration of continuous testing per userCapability Duration:4 months

Owner:Verdantas

Capability Testing Objective

The testing objective will be to establish the performance of a hydropower turbine within a closed conduit pipeline; both free discharge and outlet piping can be considered. Depending on the flow rates and pipeline diameter, both full size and scaled turbines can be tested. As a well-established facility, the test methods and established procedures provide a high level of confidence and low level of risk for flow, pressure, and temperature measurements. As an ISO accredited facility, official measurement uncertainties will be included in the final report along with turbine performance. Flow rate, pressure, and temperature measurements will be recorded by Verdantas. Depending on the voucher recipient’s testing objectives and available instrumentation, Verdantas can coordinate and aid in the measurement of other parameters.

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Core Competencies

Founded in 1894, Alden Research Laboratory (now Verdantas) began as an academic laboratory and is the oldest continuously operating hydraulic laboratory in the United States. Verdantas has been a recognized leader in the hydropower industry and the field of fluid dynamics consulting, research, and development. From the early days of hydropower, Verdantas has been on the forefront of research and development, having invented the Alden Absorption Dynamometer (i.e., a friction brake) to measure torque output of water wheels and turbines. In 1996, Verdantas, along with the US DOE and EPRI, developed a fish-friendly turbine with greater than 90% efficiency and fish mortality of ≤ 5%. Currently, Verdantas provides independent testing of emerging hydrokinetic and innovative turbine technologies. This long history of expertise has made Verdantas a leader in environmental mitigation, hydraulic modeling for engineering and biological performance, flow measurements and turbine performance testing in support of the hydropower industry.

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Capability Equipment Description

Electrically driven centrifugal pumps provide a maximum head of about 140 feet and a maximum flow of 8,400 gpm in Lines 1 and 2. Centrifugal pumps provide a maximum head of about 140 feet and a maximum flow of 1,000 gpm in Line 4. The pumps are driven with a VFD that allows control of the pump’s RPM. The Gravimetric Method is used to measure flow in Lines 1, 2 and 4. The penstock from the main laboratory pond provides a gross gravity head of approximately 28 feet and a maximum flow of 35,000 gpm in Line 3 where a calibrated master Venturi is used to measure flow. Flow measured by the gravimetric method uses tanks mounted on scales having capacities of 1,000, 10,000, and pounds. Temperature is acquired through RTD thermometers that are in line during each test. Pressure is measured with Smart differential pressure transmitters having a range of 25 inches of water column, 250 inches of water column, 1,000 inches of water column and 100 psi with a calibrated accuracy of 0.2% of reading or better.

 

Capability Background

Roughly 100-200 tests are performed annually in the Hooper facility. These tests include flow meters, turbines, valves, strainers, pumps, elbows, filters, and head loss characteristics for specialized equipment.

 

Applicant Information Needs

Is this a full-scale turbine or a scaled unit? If scaled unit, what is the scale? Design head and flow for the turbine. Inlet and outlet orientation and dimensions. The voucher recipient’s testing objectives and goals. Specifications on instrumentation the voucher recipient will provide/use for testing? How does the voucher recipient plan on controlling the load on the turbine? Will a load bank be needed?

 

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Address

Holden, Massachusetts 01520 United States

Point of Contact:

Not Available

Links:

Https://www.verdantas.com/

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