In today’s rapidly globalizing world, international partnerships play a crucial role in fostering innovation and progress. An intriguing example of this dynamic in action is the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Ltd. (SSNL) project, which stands as one of India’s largest water resources projects. This compelling project brings together Canadian manufacturer Thordon Bearings, Indian turbine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Mecamidi HPP, and Thordon’s local distributor, Soneji Engineering, in a quest to generate power for the populous Indian states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.

At the heart of this project lies the impressive Sardar Sarovar Dam, serving not only as a water source but also as a power generation site. Mecamidi HPP was tasked with installing 16 Kaplan turbines along the Narmada Canal, capable of producing approximately 12MW of power.

However, the Narmada Canal’s water quality, particularly during the rainy season, presented a significant challenge for the turbine installation due to its muddy and moderately abrasive nature. This is where Thordon Bearings entered the picture. Renowned for their production of high-performance, durable bearings and wear pads, Thordon’s reputation extended across continents and reached Mecamidi HPP.

In a display of international collaboration, Mecamidi HPP reached out to Soneji Engineering, Thordon’s distributor in the region. Having previously partnered with Mecamidi HPP on other projects, Soneji Engineering was well-prepared to provide Thordon’s solutions for the demanding conditions of the Narmada Canal. They recommended Thordon’s COMPAC material for the horizontal Turbine Guide Bearings, ThorPlas-Blue for the wicket gate bearings, and SXL for the radial and axial wear pads.

By 2017, Soneji Engineering supplied 16 COMPAC Turbine Guide Bearings to Mecamidi HPP, and by 2022, all the bearings and wear pads provided by Soneji Engineering were successfully installed and have been functioning efficiently.

The success of this project in India serves as an inspiring example of international cooperation and technical expertise coming together. The seamless collaboration between Thordon Bearings, Mecamidi HPP, and Soneji Engineering emphasizes what can be achieved when we transcend borders and unite our efforts.

Furthermore, for Canadian customers, the same level of world-class service and cutting-edge products are readily available through Millstream Engineering. By partnering with Millstream, customers can access the same reservoir of expertise and innovative solutions that have contributed to the resounding success of projects like the SSNL. Millstream Engineering takes pride in being an integral part of this global network, ensuring that the high standards of quality and performance for which Thordon Bearings are known remain accessible here in Canada.