The proposed modernization of the synthetic test facility (STF) of Central Power Research Institute (CPRI) has yet to start, it was informed in Parliament.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha on December 21, 2023, Union power minister R.K. Singh said that the Rs.40-crore modernization plan of the STF at CPRI’s High Power Laboratory that was sanctioned by the Union power ministry in January 2022 has yet to start due to a variety of reasons.
Outlining the factors for delay, the reply noted that no reputed vendors were ready to manufacture the equipment required for the project. In fact, there was no response to the expression of interest (EoI) despite several extensions, from original equipment manufacturers (OEM) or prospective global vendors.
By original thinking, the project was to be completed within 36 months from the release of the first installment of funds from the Union power ministry.
According to information available from independent sources, CPRI intended to revamp its existing synthetic test facility at its High Power Laboratory in Bengaluru, Karnataka, due to obsolescence of equipment.
The High Power Laboratory has a synthetic test facility to test HV/EHV switchgear up to 245kV, 40kA full pole. The facility is currently not operational due to outdated control circuits and lack of certain circuit elements to meet the stringent requirements of latest standards. Revamping of the circuit was essential in order to make it fully operational in order to facilitate the EHV circuit breaker testing and certification up to 245kV, 40kA to comply with the requirements of the latest standards.
The proposed revamping of the STF involved a number of aspects, including replacement of the existing 350kV charging transformer with a new high-voltage transformer with digitally controlled charging system up to voltage of 880kVDC, comprising high voltage polarity changing diode rectifier switches, protection circuits, etc. The upgrade also envisaged review and refurbishment of the existing reactors, capacitor bank and resistor bank, at the STF.
Featured photograph (source: CPRI) showing a testing facility of CPRI is for representation only.