Designing Reliability
Our engineering team at American Hydro proudly offers extensive experience in analysis and custom design to the hydro industry.
Our goal is to design turbines that produce as much power as possible while operating efficiently and reliably. We carefully engineer each turbine to prevent cavitation, a condition that can cause damage and reduce performance. Every design is evaluated as a complete system to ensure it performs well across the full range of operating conditions. While maximizing performance is our top priority, our engineers also ensure that every component is strong, durable, and built to provide long-term reliability.
Technology and Analysis Tools
Before the manufacturing process can take place, our engineers utilize our design and analysis tools to predict the performance and reliability of our American Hydro equipment.
American Hydro engineers have been at the forefront of proprietary hydro-specific software development for over 30 years, having been one of the first to develop powerful three-dimensional finite element analysis tools to apply to the structural design of some of the largest turbines in the world. Our engineers were also one of the first to adapt this technique to the analysis of turbine fluid flow.
American Hydro has the computer programs and design tools, but most importantly the experience and expertise to successfully use and analyze the programs’ output in creating real-world project success.
American Hydro analytical tools include:
- Three-Dimensional Structural Analysis, static and dynamic
- Advanced Fatigue and Fracture Mechanics
- Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis, fully viscous, steady and transient
- Non-linear Shafting Analysis
- Hydraulic Transient Analysis
- Interactive Turbine Design
Hydraulic Engineering
Every turbine has its own story, and we take the time to understand it. Our experienced hydraulic engineers work closely with each plant to develop practical, customized designs that deliver real results.
By combining advanced hydraulic design methods with high-performance computing, our hydraulic engineers help customers achieve wider operating ranges, significant output increases, and long-term reliability.
Mechanical Engineering
Successful mechanical design starts with understanding how equipment performs in the field. Our mechanical engineers combine hands-on industry experience with a deep understanding of hydroelectric equipment to develop practical, custom-engineered solutions for both new installations and rehabilitation projects.
Using advanced analytical methods such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA), we evaluate complex stresses, structural behavior, and component interactions before fabrication begins. This experience-driven approach helps customers improve reliability, extend equipment life, and confidently address their most challenging mechanical issues.
Systems Engineering
Our in-house system engineering team works with trusted partners to manage the integration of:
- Generator upgrade, rewind, or new unit replacement
- Controls upgrade or replacement
- Governor upgrade or replacement
- Balance of plant upgrade or replacement
