Innovative multi-application automation platform for hydropower plants, integrating Excitation, Electrical Protection, Turbine Governor, and Synchronization functions in a single unified hardware architecture.
The HIPASE device platform is ANDRITZ's innovative automation solution for hydropower plants, representing a world-first consolidation of multiple critical control functions onto a single, highly performing and perfectly adapted hardware platform. Rather than deploying separate dedicated devices for each application, HIPASE integrates Excitation (HIPASE-E), Electrical Protection (HIPASE-P), Turbine Governor (HIPASE-T), and Synchronization (HIPASE-S) functions — and combinations thereof — in unified device variants that are perfectly attuned to one another. All HIPASE devices operate on identical hardware, firmware, and the same Engineering Tool, delivering significant benefits for spare part management, operational usability, and personnel training. The modular 19" housing design (half or full width) accommodates variable I/O configurations including digital and analoge in- and outputs as well as CT and VT inputs, while the 7" full-color touch panels provide direct on-device operator interaction. A single integrated engineering software platform manages hardware configuration, function programming (IEC 61131), HMI customization, and diagnostics across all HIPASE variants. Standard communication protocols include IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-103/104, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, and FTP, ensuring seamless integration with plant SCADA systems including HIPASE-250. A dual CPU architecture separates application processing from communication processing, with firewalls, encrypted protocols, and system hardening providing robust cybersecurity protection for critical hydro infrastructure.