Application: Fish Ladder Flow Control Hoist
Customer: Portland General Electric
Location: Willamette Falls, Oregon City, Oregon
Hoist Model: Columbia H21500-4A17-L-00
Performance:
- Line Pull: 21,500 lbs. single layer and 43,000 lbs with 2-part line
- Line Speed: 4.5 feet per minute with 2-part line
- Brake Rating: 140,000 lbs
- Power Source: 460 VAC / Three phase / 60 Hz
Special Features:
- Dual 1½ HP brakemotors
- 12″ drum core grooved for dual 5/8″ wire rope assemblies
- 70.5″ drum width
- 4-cam rotary limit switch and custom base plate
- Dual multi-turn potentiometers for position locating
- Custom NEMA 4X control panel with variable frequency drive
- Panel face features:
- UP/DOWN momentary buttons
- LOCAL/REMOTE switch for future remote control
- LED pilot lights to indicate gate position for upper and lower maximums
Why APPI:
When Portland General Electric (PGE) needed to enhance their fish ladder flow control system at Willamette Falls, they turned to Allied Power Products, Inc. (APPI) for a solution. The challenge was to improve the efficiency and safety of managing flow levels for endangered salmon, steelhead, and lamprey eel species migrating to their spawning grounds.
Previously, PGE used a manual system involving multiple chain hoists to lift and place “stop logs” for flow control. This process was not only time-consuming but also potentially dangerous, requiring access through an elaborate tunnel system under the falls.
APPI’s solution centered around the Columbia H21500-4A17-L-00 hoist, specifically engineered for the unique requirements of the fish ladder environment. Key features of this flow control hoist system include:
- Robust line pull capacity, suitable for heavy-duty operations in challenging conditions.
- Precision control with dual multi-turn potentiometers for accurate position locating.
- A custom NEMA 4X control panel with a variable frequency drive, ensuring reliable performance in wet conditions.
- User-friendly interface with UP/DOWN buttons and LED indicators for gate positions.
- Future-proofing with a LOCAL/REMOTE switch for potential remote control integration.
By implementing APPI’s Columbia flow control hoist, PGE has significantly improved their fish ladder management process. The new system offers several benefits:
- Increased efficiency in adjusting gates and stop logs
- Enhanced safety for operators
- Improved accuracy in flow control
- Faster response times for flow adjustments
- Better adaptability to changing environmental conditions
This project showcases APPI’s expertise in designing custom solutions for unique environmental challenges. By leveraging their previous experience with fish-related projects, APPI was able to create a hoist system that not only met PGE’s current needs but also anticipated future requirements.
For more information about this fish ladder flow control hoist or any of APPI’s other specialized products and services, please contact Allied Power Products, Inc. With over 30 years of experience in providing winches, hoists, capstans, and cranes tailored to specific application requirements, APPI continues to be a trusted partner in environmental and energy industries.
