Energy generation without leakage in the Swiss Alps: Story in the 2/2022 Issue of the German Trade Magazine 'KE-NEXT'

Focus software update. With the latest generation of machines, software updates are very straightforward: They can be transmitted online. This is made possible by a commu- nication module with SIM card integrated into the ma- chine. The communication features offer additional be- nefits for users. The machine history and parameters, for example, can be viewed via an online service and ana- lysed together with the account manager. The cause of a malfunction can be quickly identified, and the quality of the forming process can be maintained at a high level. Customers can use the detailed documentation of the completed forming processes as proof of correct assem- bly. The data exchange with STAUFF’s own cloud is en- crypted in both directions, reliably protecting data against third-party access, misuse and manipulation. Controversial pumped storage Conventional pumped storage plants have been techni- cally established for decades. The overall efficiency of 75 to 80% is clearly above other storage methods, for examp- le compressed-air energy storage. The construction of a new pumped storage plant, however, is always a substan- tial intrusion on the natural environment, for example when previously free streams or rivers are dammed, or large reservoirs are built. Environmental associations therefore demand that environmental protection is trea- ted as the most important target parameter from the out- set, rather than just being an afterthought during the planning process. Disused mining sites are potential loca- tions that require no or only little interference with nature. Concepts for integrating these in sustainable energy solu- tions are being examined in some mining regions. Respecting nature At the Linth-Limmern pumped storage plant, natural lakes are used as the lower reservoir and main reservoir. Damming the Muttsee lake has only little impact on the flora and fauna in the barren mountain landscape. The greatest impact on nature occurred during the construc- tion phase, which is why the removal of any required installation was part of the environmental restrictions. The container cluster and the two transport cableways have now been removed and the areas used during con- struction have been restored. Each of the four pump turbines has a capacity of 250 MW. Image: Axpo Power The machine cavern is 150 m long, 30 m wide and 53 m high. Image: Axpo Power “When leaks were found at the Limmern pumped storage plant in 2019, I was con- sulted as an ex- pert. The damage analyses showed that cracks had formed in some of the cutting ring tube con- nections.” Uwe Bröllos, Key Account Manager, Fluidtec