Restoration of the diversion canal of the EDISON hydroelectric power plant in Paderno d’Adda

Maintaining structures considered strategic, including for energy efficiency, requires attention to their state of conservation and longevity, which obviously requires foresight and periodic monitoring for potential deterioration.

One case examined and successfully completed was the restoration of the water diversion channel to the turbine room at the ENEL power plant in Paderno D’Adda. After many years of use, the state of conservation obviously included localized leaks within the main room. These leaks were essentially localized, but they affected the structure’s long-term stability, potentially leading to its shutdown.

The solutions involved the use of materials that could be used with common construction site equipment and that avoided the release of toxic substances, thus protecting the surrounding environment.

The work began by cleaning the walls inside the canal and exposing the various weak points in the walls. The old wooden spacers, which had deteriorated over time and become the main weak points, were removed. These points were then sealed with SIRIOBETON STOP mortar (mortar to instantly block water infiltration). The advantages of its use include extremely rapid hardening (3-5 minutes), even underwater, combined with exceptional resistance. Average consumption is approximately 19 kg/m2/cm with a mixing time of approximately 2 minutes (depending on the temperature).

The Edison hydroelectric plant’s central canal restoration project highlights the importance of high-quality materials to ensure the durability and efficiency of strategic infrastructures like this one. Thanks to the products supplied by Proind, it was possible to ensure better structural protection of the canal, helping to extend the plant’s operating life and reduce the risk of future interventions. Collaboration with specialized material suppliers like Proind is essential to achieving reliable, safe, and sustainable results over the long term.