Development and Engineering Application of Key Technologies for Baihetan 1000 MW Fully Air-Cooled Hydro-Generators

Station exemplifying engineering excellence and green energy commitment. Operated by

China Yangtze Power Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Three Gorges Corporation, Baihetan is

China’s second-largest hydro power plant with 16,000 MW total installed capacity, featuring 16 fully air-cooled 1,000 MW hydro-generators—the world’s largest single-unit capacity. It began partial operation in 2021 and full-capacity generation in 2022. Developing these units faced unprecedented challenges in cooling, high-voltage insulation, and operational stability.

For stability, a nonlinear mechanical model was established using the finite element method to calculate shafting transient response. For cooling, an innovative multi-zone ventilation system solved ultra-high energy density cooling issues. For insulation, a 24 kV resin-rich system with high-field-strength mica tape achieves breakdown voltage over eight times the rated voltage without thicker insulation, plus an anti-corona system. Operational data confirm performance exceeds design specifications, setting world records and marking a quantum leap in hydro power technology.