Pelton Turbine — HPP Plave

The challenge: severe operational restrictions

As a critical primary frequency regulator for the Slovenian grid, the Plave HPP operates its Pelton turbines under demanding dynamic conditions. After a six-month outage, the unit required a complete runner replacement, needle refurbishment and re-commissioning while preserving every original hydraulic parameter.

The solution: new runners and precision needle service

Litostroj designed and manufactured all-new Pelton runners as a single-piece stainless steel casting. Scope included precision balancing, refurbishment of the six needles and full water-distribution-manifold overhaul.

The Engineering Breakthrough: building on experience from prior Pelton projects the team completed the full runner change-out in just six months — versus the typical eight-to-nine month duration for comparable rebuilds.

The result: unrestricted operation

Once the new runner was manufactured and installed the results were immediate. The plant now operates steadily, safely, and without restriction across its full load range.