The main functions of technical water supply in a hydropower station include cooling, lubrication, and serving as an operational energy source.

Cooling Function: Technical water supply is used to cool critical equipment in the hydropower station, such as the thrust bearings and guide bearings of generators, air coolers, water guide bearings of turbines, and main transformers. These devices generate a significant amount of heat during operation. If not cooled in a timely manner, this heat can affect the lifespan and safety of the equipment. The cooling process typically involves introducing cooling water into these devices to carry away heat and maintain them within a normal operating temperature range.

Lubrication Function: Technical water supply is also used to lubricate certain mechanical equipment, such as the rubber-lined bearings of deep well pumps. Water-lubricated rubber bearings can improve the operational stability of the equipment and reduce wear, but they require high-quality water.

Sealing Function: The main shaft seals of the turbine include both operating seals and maintenance seals.

Operating Seals: These seals use a clean water source with a certain pressure introduced to the sealing surface to maintain stable contact and prevent water leakage. The water also forms a lubricating film, avoiding wear caused by dry friction of the sealing rubber.

Maintenance Seals: These seals use low-pressure air introduced into an inflatable air bladder, which expands to press against the cylindrical surface of the rotating components from all sides, achieving the purpose of sealing water.

The hydropower station introduces water from the reservoir through pressure supply pipes into the turbines, which drive the generators to produce electricity. During this process, the technical water supply plays a crucial role in cooling and lubricating key equipment, ensuring the efficient operation of the hydropower station.