A New Methodology for Risk Analysis for Excitation System of Alternator in SHP using FIS

Preponderance of failures in a generator is due to excitation failure, thus it is pertinent to understand these failures, their reasons and ways to mitigate these failure modes. Failure mode and effect analysis is an ingrained tool that helps in increased availability and reliability of small hydropower plants. In this research, a FIS based methodology has been proposed to identify failure modes and prioritize maintenance action by calculating the Risk priority number. This calculation facilitates the utility to take preventive measures and ensure a safer and more reliable operation of the alternator in the powerhouse. This fuzzified approach to FMEA is a de viation from the traditional approach that gives a more tolerable range of RPN values by eliminating the role of human experts in maintenance prioritization. The model is implemented on a set of failure modes and an FMEA sheet is developed. The paper will be helpful for utilities and researchers involved with the operation and maintenance of small hydropower plants.