Nuova Biaschina Hydro Power Plant at dusk, showcasing its modernized infrastructure and sustainable energy production in Ticino, Switzerland.
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Success Story: Modernizing Nuova Biaschina HPP

Discover how MC-monitoring is enhancing reliability, efficiency, and predictive maintenance at the Nuova Biaschina Hydro Power Plant with advanced condition monitoring technology and intelligent machinery protection systems.

Project Overview

Located in Ticino, Switzerland, the Nuova Biaschina Hydropower Plant is a critical asset for Azienda Elettrica Ticinese (AET). Equipped with three vertical Francis turbines of 50MW each, the plant has relied on MC-monitoring solutions for many years. To modernize its infrastructure and enhance operational reliability, AET initiated an upgrade project for Unit #1, integrating next-generation monitoring and protection systems.

MC-monitoring was entrusted with this modernization effort, ensuring a seamless transition to state-of-the-art vibration monitoring and condition-based maintenance while preserving compatibility with the existing infrastructure.

Nuova Biaschina Hydro Power Plant at dusk, showcasing its modernized infrastructure and sustainable energy production in Ticino, Switzerland.
Nuova Biaschina Hydro Power Plant, located in Canton Ticino, Switzerland.

Modernization Strategy

The modernization of Unit #1 included the following key upgrades:

Next-Generation Distributed Protection & Monitoring Module - PMM-300P

  • Upgraded from legacy PMM-300 modules to the latest PMM-300P versions, with enhanced processing capabilities.
  • Installed four new PMM-300P modules per turbine unit for high-precision vibration monitoring.

State-of-the-Art Absolute and Relative Vibration Sensors

  • Installed seven PAS-103 absolute vibration sensors to enhance machinery protection & diagnostics.
  • Added two PPT-280 proximity sensors for precise axial shaft displacement measurements.
  • Installed a new key-phasor sensor to enhance phase reference order tracking analysis.

Advanced Condition Monitoring Software - CMS-500P

  • Deployed CMS-500 PLUS locally for real-time data processing and diagnostics.
  • Enabled remote monitoring through CMS-500P replication at headquarters.

Enhanced System Integration & Data Communication

  • Enabled Modbus communication for optimal data integration with control system (DCS).
  • Optimized network topology for improved data synchronization between local and remote servers.

Key Benefits

The modernization of Nuova Biaschina HPP delivers significant benefits, ensuring long-term operational reliability and predictive maintenance optimization.

  • Extended Equipment Lifespan – Advanced vibration monitoring enhances early fault detection, reducing unplanned outages.
  • Improved Operational Efficiency – Real-time data acquisition and analytics optimize maintenance schedules and asset performance.
  • Seamless Legacy System Integration – The upgrade preserves existing infrastructure while adopting modern monitoring technologies.
  • Enhanced Remote Monitoring – CMS-500P replication allows real-time diagnostics from headquarters.
  • Optimized Sensor Network – Improved measurement accuracy leads to better machine diagnostics and asset protection.

Discover how MC-monitoring’s advanced solutions can enhance the reliability and efficiency of your hydropower assets. Contact us today to explore how our condition monitoring and protection systems can help you optimize performance and ensure long-term operational excellence.

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