Whether you’re building a new penstock system or repairing an existing one, we deliver high-quality welds that ensure safety, durability, and long-term performance.
What is Penstock Welding?
Penstocks are large pipes or tunnels that carry water, often under high pressure, for hydroelectric power generation, water treatment plants, or dam infrastructure. Because these systems handle intense flow and pressure, the welding must be incredibly strong, precise, and built to last.
That’s where our expertise comes in. We provide professional steel penstock welding services that meet all structural and pressure standards. From small repairs to full installation, we ensure your system is safe, efficient, and built to withstand the elements.
Why Choose Vancouver Welding Inc.?
We’ve built a reputation in Metro Vancouver for reliable, high-quality welding, and penstock work is no exception. Here’s what you get when you work with us:
- Experienced welders who understand the unique demands of large-diameter steel pipes
- Certified work that meets industry and safety codes
- Custom solutions for on-site challenges and remote access installations
- Mobile welding services, fully equipped and ready to go wherever your project takes us
We’re problem-solvers, and we know how to get the job done right, even in tough conditions or hard-to-reach locations.
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.
Steel Penstock Repair and Maintenance Welding
Over time, penstocks can suffer from corrosion, wear, or joint failure—especially in high-pressure or high-volume systems. If your penstock system needs repair, we can help restore it to full strength.
Our team can:
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.
Our Core Values
These values serve as the foundation of our business, shaping the way we approach our work, interact with our clients, and contribute to the communities we serve.
Let’s Talk About Your Penstock Project Today
If you’re planning a penstock installation, repair, or upgrade, Vancouver Welding Inc. is here to help. We bring experience, craftsmanship, and mobility to every job—and we’re proud to support the infrastructure that powers and serves our communities.
Contact us today to request a quote or learn more about our steel penstock welding services. We proudly serve businesses, municipalities, and contractors across the Metro Vancouver area.