Modernization of the ICMET Craiova high-power laboratory – project financed by ERDF

Our institute has implemented a project with major impact. The intended goal is to modernize the high-power laboratory. We want to reach the technical level required by the European Union. The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. The acronym of this important fund is ERDF. The sectoral operational program is called Increasing Economic Competitiveness. This action is part of Priority Axis 2 of the program. The investments attracted support Romanian research of excellence.

Project financial data

• Total project value: 15,532,552 lei.
• Non-repayable financial assistance: 12,991,822 lei.
• ERDF contribution: 9,964,727 lei.
• Contribution of the Government of Romania: 3,027,095 lei.
• Project duration: 43 months.
• Initiation date: March 1, 2009.
• Completion deadline: September 30, 2012.

Main objectives

Improving the research infrastructure is a clear objective. This increases the quality of experimental scientific research in Romania. We want to develop new top-notch electrotechnical products. Another goal is to reach a higher technical level. Thus, we carry out quality certification tests for electrical equipment. These are done strictly according to the European standards in force. We also create excellent technical conditions for the training of young engineers. They have access to essential practical activities here. They can carry out complex bachelor's or master's degree projects. Doctoral students now work in a laboratory with ultramodern equipment.

Results obtained and new equipment purchased

a) Measuring circuits:

• Measurement and data processing system with optical isolation.
• Voltage dividers and special fast current monitors.
• They are a reference standard and a standard measuring transformer.
• Modern system for measuring extremely rapidly variable pressures.
• Fluke multifunctional calibrator along with a power analyzer.

b) Equipment for verification and testing:

• High-performance test kit with increased voltage.
• Equipment for checking the dielectric strength of electrical insulating oils.
• Current-voltage kit for quick checking of protection relays.

c) Monitoring installations:

• Installation for efficient diagnosis of the technical condition of circuit breakers.
• Installation for monitoring the winding temperature of rotating electrical machines.
• Fast video camera equipped with digital CMOS color technology.

d) Electromechanical equipment and machinery:

• Three-stage compressors equipped with four cylinders.
• Five-ton forklift and very powerful hydraulic jacks.
• Self-propelled aerial platform for safe working at high heights.

Modernizations carried out

We have completely modernized the six-kilovolt installation. The low-voltage substation has also been updated. The protection and control circuits of the generators have been replaced. We have completely rehabilitated all the heating stands in the premises. The distribution systems have been brought to modern standards. The control rooms have been technically and seismically rehabilitated. The research laboratories now benefit from excellent safety conditions. The machine room and the lifting transformer room are completely renovated today. Our infrastructure meets the highest European quality requirements.

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