Radial and slide gates used in hydroelectric power plants (HEPP) and dam structures are among the most critical mechanical components of the system in terms of controlled direction, retention, and discharge of water. The correct design of these gates, their manufacture with high-strength materials, and their installation in the field according to engineering rules are vital for both facility safety and long-term operational performance.
These pieces of equipment, which are exposed to particularly high water loads, continuous opening-closing cycles, and corrosive environmental conditions, must be produced in accordance with national and international quality standards. Adana-based Enermak Steel Energy Machinery and Engineering meticulously carries out all processes from the manufacturing to the field installation of radial and slide gates used in HEPP and dam applications.
What is a Radial Gate?
Radial gates are gate systems with a curved (cylindrical) surface plate used to provide the controlled passage of water in dams and hydroelectric power plants.
Structural Components and Load Transfer: The gate surface is connected to fixed (trunnion) bearings located on the side walls via radial support arms, and hydrostatic loads are safely transferred to the concrete structure through these bearings.
Operating Principle and Movement Mechanism: Radial gates generally move around a horizontal axis passing through a point near the geometric center of the curved surface.
Effect of Hydrostatic Forces: Thanks to this design, the hydrostatic forces acting on the gate surface are transmitted to the rotation axis in a way that creates minimum opening or closing torque on the gate. This ensures safe and controlled operation with lower lifting force.
Advantages and Usage Areas: Thanks to these features, radial gates are types of gates that can be used effectively in wide spans, under high water loads, and with economical drive systems.
What is a Slide Gate?
Slide gates are gate systems that move linearly in a vertical or horizontal direction, used to control water flow in dams and hydroelectric power plants. They generally consist of a flat gate body, rail systems that guide this body, and side and bottom sealing elements that ensure water tightness.
Gate Structure and Main Parts: Slide gates consist of a gate body, rail systems, sealing elements, and embedded parts. These components ensure that the gate movement occurs smoothly and safely.
Movement Mechanism and Operating Principle: The gate body moves up-down or horizontally within the rails. Opening and closing operations are performed with manual, electric, or hydraulic lifting systems.
Load Bearing and Sealing Features: Hydrostatic loads act directly on the gate surface, and these loads are transferred to the concrete structure via the rails and embedded parts. High sealing performance is achieved thanks to the side and bottom sealing elements.
Usage Areas and Operating Advantages: Slide gates are used in many areas, primarily as service gates, maintenance gates, and bottom outlet applications. Thanks to their robust structures and simple operating principles, they offer precise flow control, reliable operation, and a long service life.
How are the Design, Manufacturing, and Surface Protection Processes Conducted?
In the manufacturing process, plate thicknesses, reinforcement systems, sealing elements, and corrosion protection details are meticulously determined based on static and hydraulic load calculations. In all design and production stages, the high water pressure, variable flow conditions, and long-term operation requirements of the gates are taken into consideration.
Through sandblasting, priming, and industrial paint applications, gate surfaces are prepared to provide high resistance and long-lasting corrosion resistance against harsh environmental conditions. These processes offer long-term and trouble-free usage by increasing operational safety while reducing the maintenance needs of the equipment.
What are the Technical Specifications of HEPP and Dam Radial and Slide Gates?
- Manufactured from high-strength steels and designed to withstand high water pressure.
- Dimensioned based on static and hydraulic load calculations to ensure safe operation.
- Radial gates work effectively in wide spans with low driving force thanks to their curved structure.
- Slide gates offer precise and controlled flow management in narrow sections.
- Minimum water loss and high operational efficiency are achieved thanks to sealing elements.
- Long-lasting protection against corrosion is provided with sandblasting, priming, and industrial paint systems.
- They adapt to different operational needs with manual, electric, or hydraulic drive systems.
- Designed to work safely and uninterruptedly in harsh environmental and climatic conditions.
- Increases operational continuity with low maintenance requirements and long service life.
How are Field Installation Applications of Radial and Slide Gates Performed?
The installation of radial and slide gates is not just about placing the equipment. It is also a sensitive engineering process that involves adjusting the system to work together with all mechanical and hydraulic parts.
- Installation Components and Positioning Precision
During the installation phase, anchor plates, embedded parts, rail systems, hinge and bearing points, and gate lifting devices (manual, motorized, or hydraulic) are handled together. Correct positioning of the gates in axial and vertical directions is critical for sealing performance and safe operation.
- Functional Tests and Commissioning Phase
Radial and slide gates whose field installation is completed are commissioned after conducting functional tests, opening-closing trials, and operational checks under load. In this process, the water leakage tolerances of the gates, synchronization of the lifting mechanisms, and safety systems are checked in detail. Thus, the gates are seamlessly integrated into the plant or dam operation.
How are Gate Renewal and New Gate Installation Systems Applied in Existing Facilities?
In HEPPs and dams currently in operation, the replacement of radial and slide gates is frequently preferred for capacity increases, enhancing operational safety, or renewing equipment that has completed its service life. Although the work performed in this framework is called a revision, it effectively includes the manufacturing and installation of new gates. New gates designed in accordance with the dimensions of existing systems are installed and commissioned with minimum downtime in the field.
What Advantages do Experience and Technical Expertise Provide in Gate Systems?
The manufacturing and installation of radial and slide gates is an endeavor that requires high experience, expert engineering knowledge, and field application capability. An incorrectly designed or improperly installed gate can lead to serious water losses, mechanical failures, and operational safety risks. Therefore, managing the manufacturing and installation processes under a single technical discipline provides a great advantage.
How are HEPP and Dam Radial and Slide Gate Prices Determined?
The prices of radial and slide gates used in HEPPs and dams are determined based on the gate dimensions and type, the water pressure they will be exposed to, the quality of the materials used, the corrosion protection system, the type of lifting mechanism (manual, electric, or hydraulic), and the scope of installation and commissioning. Additionally, project site conditions, special engineering requirements, and the standards to be applied also have a direct effect on the cost.
Enermak Offers Reliable and Integrated Gate Solutions
Enermak offers ideal solutions by approaching time planning, cost-effectiveness, and quality criteria with a balanced approach in all processes, from the dismantling of existing gates to the installation of new gates and the integration of lifting mechanisms. Due to its field experience gained in HEPP and dam projects, qualified technical staff, and strong manufacturing infrastructure, Enermak continues to be a reliable and long-term solution partner in the field of radial and slide gate manufacturing and installation.