Cast Iron Turbine Casing Repair 1

[KMP04]

Can anyone recommend repair options for a 12" long crack on a 4" thick cast iron turbine casing? This 17 ton component is located inside a turbine pit which holds a dual francis horizontal runner/shaft assembly. Will a weld repair be successful if preheat is not possible?


Thanks.

 

[metengr]

Based on your information, I would recommend a metal stitch repair to avoid distortion to the turbine casing from welding. Cast iron has poor weldability and typically requires elevated preheat. You can also weld with minimal preheat but this is dependent on the grade of material and the cleanliness of the casting.

We have used the metal stitch mechanical repair method with great success.

 

[KMP04]

Thanks metengr...Where can I find more information on metal stitch mechanical repairs?

Regards,
KMP04

 

[metengr]

You can try a web search using "metal stitch repairs".

 

[yates]

You don't say if it's gray cast iron or SG cast (ductile) iron. The latter is a little bit easier than the first, but still is no joke. The only really effective weld reapir is with preheat and therefore very difficult to do in situ. I can remember being present for a major weld repair by the German specialist (name ?) who rewelded a 22-ton gas turbine casing. The whole basement was a furnace and access to the weld repair area was gained by sliding around huge insulated steel sheets which formed the ground floor. Even then two assistants prevented cooldown of the casing surface with two huge gas torches. I remember the electrode was only made once a sample of the chemical composition of the casing had been taken. It was incredible. I saw pictures of enormous cast-iron forge goosenecks repaired in this way.

 

[mechanic2005]

Do you know the type of steel?.

 

[teb1]

KMP04, For information about mechanical repairs to cast iron go to:

http://www.Casting-Repairs.com

they can help you.

 

[KMP04]

Yates, This is a 100yr old grey cast iron casing. Unfortunately I don't have confidence that a weld repair will provide a successful fix.
We are currently in contact with several Cast Iron repair companies that specialize in this service. If all else fails, I may have to fabricate a new casing.
Thanks for the other links and info metengr & teb1.

Anyone know of metal stitch repair companies in Canada?

 

[teb1]

KMP04,

You haven't called the number on my website or you would be talking to me and we would be solving your problem!

 

[KMP04]

teb1,
give me a call 204-477-7900 to discuss.

 

[MOB1]

KMPO4,
I would recommend you do a net search on METALOK.
This metal stistching technique works extremely well.

 

[teb1]

MOB1,

The proper spelling is Metalock. It is a registerd trademark that is owned by the original Metalock Corporation in North America with offices in Chicago and Baton Rouge, La.

 

[RNT]

Check out locknstitch.com they specilize in cast repairs and machineing

 

[unclesyd]

Here is a very large outfit that has been around for a long time and does good work. They have the onsite capability of doing everything needed.

http://www.inplace.com/machining/metalstitch.html