POWER FROM ARAPUNI

Auckland Star, Issue 38, 14 February 1929, Page 10

POWER FROM ARAPUNI

IN JUNE NEXT.

THREE GENERATOR SETS.

WORKING IN TWELVE MONTHS

PROSPECTS OF EXTENSION,

(By Telegraph.— Special to " Star.")

ARAPUNI, this day

The approximate date of the generation of power at Arapuni is June next

Work at the powerhouse is proceeding' apace, and it is fully expected that one generator set wiTI be put into operation in the month • mentioned. It will be capable cf generating 15,000 kilowatts. According to Mr. T. Rabone, engineer in charge, it is hoped to have a second set working by September, and the third by next December or January.

A slight element of uncertainty exists owing to the fact that the machinery, due to the trouble with the contractors, had been lying in the open for nearly three years. Some of it on being opened up had been found in a condition that necessitated attention.

When the three generator sets are operating they will generate 45,000 kilowatts.

Questioned as to the possible extension of the works, Mr. Kaboue said it was not unlikely that a fourth set would be installed later. The full capacity of the works would be six sets, capable of generating 90,000 kilowatts.

Blasting work is in progress in the original bed of the stream below the powerhouse to furnish a free get away for the water from the turbines.

It has been found that the river bed beyond the spillway, which was lifted by the deposits of pumice when the river was diverted, is lowering at the rate of four inches a month.