Exploring welding options for Steel Penstock Fabrication? Unsure about the process? Let our team of welders at Vancouver Welding Inc. to be your partner in the next project.
Penstocks
Penstocks are pipes which carry high pressure water from a reservoir to a turbine. The penstock essentially allows the conversion from potential energy into kinetic energy. Penstocks are a major component to a hydroelectric facility. British Columbia has many hydroelectric facilities, making up a large percentage of electricity generated.
These pipes are usually made from steel which require high quality welding ensuring efficient movement of water. Along with the penstock there are grates and filters attached to the ends to trap any debris that may enter the channel. Many components that make up hydroelectric facilities require welding, having a qualified and professional team can make all the difference in the success of a large project.
Importance Of Welding Penstocks
Penstocks are made up of many different bends, reducers, expanders, intakes, expansion joints, manholes, etcetera. Most of these unique parts of the penstock require welding.
Penstock Welding Processes
Penstocks are usually made of steel, however, throughout the construction of such project many welding processes and materials may be used.
Following types of welding processes are employed in penstock fabrication, which are as follows:
Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW) & Metal Core Arc Welding (MCAW)
Semi Automatic wire feed welding process that can be used for pipe, structural or miscellaneous fabrication.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) / Stick Welding
Often used during field welding, a reliable process used onsite for pipe or structural steel welding.
GTAW / TIG Welding
It is a versatile welding process that is suitable for all welding positions. It uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode.
It produces the highest quality weld and has become a replacement for gas metal arc welding. TIG welding is mostly used where small welds are needed on stainless steel.
Factors Governing Penstock Welding Specification
There are different factors that you should take into account before selecting a particular welding process and welding parameters for a penstock. These factors include:
Penstock Welding Inspection
Since penstocks carry water at a high pressure it can be dangerous if not properly welded, the inspection of welded penstocks is necessary to ensure the quality of welded joints.
Following penstock welding inspection technologies are applied:
X-Ray Inspection
This penstock welding inspection technique can detect welding defects beneath the surface. It is an extremely expensive technique that is used for critical weld joints.
Ultrasonic Inspection
This penstock welding technique can detect surface as well as subsurface welding defects. In this technique, a high-frequency sound wave is detected through the base metal and the welded joint. When a wave hits a discontinuity in a weld joint, part of the wave is reflected back. In this way, a welding defect can be detected.
Both welding inspection technologies have pros and cons that need to be considered based on applicable standards and customer requirements.
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Tell us about your Steel Penstock Welding needs! Submit the form or visit our welding office in Maple Ridge, and let Vancouver Welding Ltd. be your trusted partner in precision welding across Metro Vancouver.
