Modified FMEA for risk management in geotechnical structures during hydraulic circuit filling of a hydroelectric power plant

Abstract

This article presents an approach centered on a modification of the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis Method (FMEA) for risk management concerning geotechnical structures during the hydraulic circuit filling process within a hydroelectric power plant. In this work, the conventional FMEA method, typically employed in various projects and processes, was adapted through the development of specific classification criteria. The primary objective was to enhance the applicability of this method to geotechnical structures during the filling procedure. The validity of this method was confirmed through its application in a case study. This analysis suggests that the newly devised scoring tables have streamlined the risk analysis process by reducing the number of classification categories and adopting a color scale. In addition to their role in classifying failure modes, these tables also serve as a guide for mitigating the risks associated with the filling procedure. The appropriate course of action is determined based on the specific aspects presented in the analyzed geotechnical model. It is our belief that the insights generated by this research will offer valuable support to technical professionals responsible for hydraulic circuit filling in hydroelectric projects. This support aims to enhance the safety of this activity by minimizing the severity of failures and increasing the probability of their detection.