SUHNER presents grinding solutions for the hydropower industry at FABTECH 2025
Hydropower plays a central role in global energy supply and is one of the most efficient forms of renewable energy. By harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water, it generates clean and environmentally friendly electricity. The sustainable, emission-free power generation makes hydropower plants an essential component of climate-friendly energy policies.
The hydropower industry places the highest demands on the precision and durability of its components. As a reliable and flexible partner, SUHNER offers specially tailored solutions for surface processing that meet these unique challenges. SUHNER products are used in every phase of turbine manufacturing and maintenance – from component production to ongoing service and repair.

Challenges in Hydropower Plant Maintenance
Hydropower turbines are constantly exposed to high water pressure, strong currents, and suspended particles in the water, all of which can lead to material fatigue and wear. Kaplan, Francis, and Pelton turbines – selected according to site and head – are particularly vulnerable to continuous wear under these conditions.
To avoid performance losses and costly downtime, regular and thorough maintenance is essential. Maintenance prevents wear and damage to turbine components, ensuring that turbines continue to operate efficiently and reliably. A key element in these processes is the grinding of turbine components.
SUHNER’s Solutions
SUHNER’s grinding solutions cover the entire lifecycle of a hydropower turbine: from the production of complex components such as blades and rotors, to regular maintenance and repair. This is especially relevant in plants using Pelton or Kaplan turbines, where precise and even surface processing is essential for efficient operation.
The company’s comprehensive product portfolio includes a wide range of grinding tools, machines, and abrasive materials designed specifically to meet the requirements of the hydropower industry. Among them are high-performance grinding machines, abrasive belts, grinding points, polishing pastes, and many other products essential for the precise processing of turbines.
