WD Power Sources and Refurbishes 2.74 MW Siemens Steam Turbine for AC Whitcher Sawmill

COLDSTREAM, Tsitsikamma, Eastern Cape – WD Power, specialising in rotating machinery, has successfully sourced and refurbished a 2.74 MW Siemens steam turbine generator for long-standing client, AC Whitcher, a family-owned sawmill in Coldstream, Tsitsikamma.

This project will ensure the long-term stability of the sawmill’s self-sufficient power generation.

Once the Siemens Turbine is commissioned, it will allow time for refurbishment of the 3 existing turbines, bringing the total available capacity installed at A.C. Whitcher to over 5MW. In addition to being self-sufficient, these investments put the company in the fortunate position to generate additional electricity to be supplied back into the grid. Although only a small contribution, using the waste from the sawmilling process to help reduce the pressure on the national grid (load shedding), with sustainable green power, is a rare occasion where environmental, social and economic needs can all be met simultaneously.

For decades, AC Whitcher has utilized steam turbines, fuelled by wood chips, to generate its own electricity, instead of relying  on the national grid. Through many of these decades, WD Power has been the trusted partner for maintaining the specialised power generation equipment. To expand their generation capacity, lower  maintenance costs and ensure continued operational efficiency, AC Whitcher tasked WD Power with finding a suitable additional turbine.

The search for a turbine that matched the specific steam conditions and output requirements was a challenge. John Wright of WD Power led the international search for the right equipment. The breakthrough came when a low-hour 2.74 MW Siemens steam turbine generator became available in Croatia.

A joint delegation from WD Power and AC Whitcher travelled to Croatia to inspect the unit. The positive assessment led to the decision to acquire the turbine. AC Whitcher contracted WD Power for the entire project, including the removal and shipping of the turbine from Croatia to South Africa.

Upon arrival, the turbine and alternator were transported to the WD Power workshop for a complete inspection and overhaul. The equipment was stripped, and all components, including steam auxiliary equipment, were inspected and refurbished. Seals and gaskets were replaced to ensure the unit was in as-new condition.

The refurbishment phase of the project is now complete, and the turbine is ready for installation at the AC Whitcher sawmill pending the completion of site preparations. This project is a testament to WD Power’s ability to provide comprehensive, end-to-end solutions that help clients expand their businesses with reliable and more efficient equipment.