Use of Markov Decision Model to Minimize Maintenance and Replacement Cost of Turbines in the Shiroro Hydro-Electric Power Station, Kaduna River, Niger State Nigeria

Abstract

This paper presents the application of Markov decision model to minimize the maintenance and replacement cost of turbines in the Shiroro Hydro-Eletric Power Station, Kaduna River, Niger State, Nigeria. Data obtained reveals that minimum cost of equipment maintenance through the Markov reward model is achievable and able to ascertain long-run maintenance and the repair/replacement of turbine. Information obtained have the potential to assist engineers and utility staff to plan against turbine failure and hence, improve the stability of power generation which will in-turn lead to accelerate the economic growth of the nation.