#TechnicianTuesday: Tri-State Valve Technicians Showcase Expertise in Emergency Valve Repair

Table of Contents

This #TechnicianTuesday, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable efforts of Drew Yount and Damon Trichell from Tri-State Valve (TVI), who demonstrated exceptional skill and ingenuity in tackling an emergency valve repair project at an electrical generation and distribution company in Arkansas.

The Challenge: Emergency Repairs on a Deadline

Drew and Damon faced an emergency call-out on a Sunday night at 9 pm with a 5-hour window to make repairs. The issue was an 8″ check valve that had a packing leaking and a malfunctioning 16″ check valve. The stem of the 16″ valve was bent, requiring a new stem to be machined to restore functionality.

Our Solution: Creating a Plan of Action

Step 1: Immediate Response

Upon receiving the emergency call, Drew and Damon swiftly mobilized to assess the situation and devise a plan of action.

Step 2: Precision Machining

Drew and Damon collaborated with a local machinist to fabricate a new stem for the 16″ valve, ensuring precise measurements and compatibility with the existing valve assembly.

Step 3: Custom Gasket and Packing

In addition to the new stem, the team crafted a custom gasket and packing to address the packing leak on the 8″ valve, guaranteeing a secure and reliable seal.

Step 4: Thorough Inspection and Testing

After completing the repairs, Drew and Damon conducted thorough inspections and functional tests to verify the integrity and performance of both valves.

The Outcome

Thanks to Drew and Damon’s expertise and dedication, the valves at this facility are now operating flawlessly, preventing potential disruptions to power generation operations. Furthermore, their exemplary work has earned TVI future outage projects with the client in the fall, cementing a strong and enduring partnership.

Continuing Service

The technicians went out to this facility several times to monitor and service other valves, including fixing a 12″ valve that was leaking. It had to be replaced with a new stem and packing (pictures below).

Safety Tip

In the fast-paced industrial environment, it’s crucial to remain vigilant against hazards like slips, trips, and falls. Always prioritize safety by wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task at hand, ensuring a safe and secure work environment for yourself and your colleagues.

Join us in applauding Drew Yount and Damon Trichell for their outstanding contributions and commitment to excellence in industrial maintenance and repair. Their dedication embodies the values of TVI and serves as an inspiration to us all.