Motion magnification for vibration based damaged assessment of energy systems

Hydropower plants are widely regarded as an effective and sustainable solution for electricity generation. They leverage water, a renewable resource, to produce energy, thereby promotion environmental sustainability. Their relatively low operational and maintenance costs contribute to their economic viability. The crucial water storage capacity in their reservoirs also enables the provision of auxiliary services, beyond solidifying their role as a versatile and reliable component in modern energy systems. Optical Motion Magnification (OMM) is used for condition monitoring for hydropower turbines by enhancing small motions in video recordings, OMM is a non-contact, vision-based technique, allows for the detection and visualization of vibrations and displacements that would otherwise be hidden beneath the noise floor or invisible to the human eye. The technique approach is to track the mechanical characteristics of turbine components without the use of physical sensors by enhancing subtle movements in high-resolution video data. The study explores OMM's potential as a substitute for conventional measurement tools including proximity probes and laser displacement sensors, which are frequently employed in defect detection and turbine vibration analysis. To evaluate OMM's sensitivity and accuracy against these well-known sensing technologies, several tests were carried out. Whether optical motion magnification can produce equivalent outcomes in detecting mechanical problems and describing the dynamic response of hydropower turbines is the goal. By providing a more adaptable, non-invasive alternative that lessens the need for intricate installations and maintenance, the study's findings could make a substantial contribution to the field of condition monitoring. If successful, OMM might be a more affordable and secure option for keeping an eye on spinning equipment in extensive energy infrastructure.