18 Июн Precision Innovation in Power Generation
CLIMAX PL2000 Powers Through Shaft Repair at Guacolda Plant
When a key shaft in an induced draft (ID) fan system at the Guacolda thermoelectric plant needed urgent repair, the AXIUM team had a choice: either dismantle large equipment, costing time and money, or find a better solution on-site. They turned to the CLIMAX PL2000, a trusted portable lathe known for its durability and precision in field machining. With years of proven performance in the power generation, mining, and petrochemical industries, the PL2000 portable lathe gave the team a solid foundation to build a custom solution for a complex challenge.
Why It Matters: Precision Repairs in a Demanding Industry
Thermoelectric power plants operate under high pressure, literally and figuratively. Their equipment runs 24/7, and unplanned downtime can lead to major energy supply disruptions and costly delays. Induced draft fan systems, like the one at Guacolda, are essential for controlling airflow through boilers. If a fan shaft fails or degrades, it can bring an entire generation unit offline.
That’s why in situ, precision repairs are so valuable. Portable tools like the CLIMAX PL2000 make it possible to restore critical components without major disassembly, reducing downtime and keeping power flowing.
The Problem: Shaft Too Large for Standard Equipment
The shaft at Guacolda was larger and more complex than what the PL2000 is typically designed to handle. Removing it for repair wasn’t feasible. The only practical option was to machine the shaft directly in place, but that required a serious modification to the tool’s reach and stability.
The Solution: Custom Extension Arm + Anti-Vibration Support
AXIUM’s engineering team stepped up with a creative, field-ready solution. They designed a custom extension arm for the PL2000 and paired it with a rotational anti-vibration support. This setup extended the lathe’s range while keeping the cutting tool steady under load, essential for hitting tight tolerances and avoiding chatter during machining.
With this custom configuration, they successfully machined the shaft in-place, restoring it to spec without the need for oversized or off-site equipment.
The Results
- Shaft repaired with high precision
- No need for system disassembly
- Downtime minimized
- Power generation quickly restored
This project is a great example of how portable machine tools and innovative field engineering go hand-in-hand in high-demand industries. By pairing the rugged performance of the CLIMAX PL2000 portable lathe with a smart, custom modification, the AXIUM team delivered a fast and effective solution under pressure.
In today’s energy landscape, where reliability, uptime, and cost control are more important than ever, it’s the kind of problem-solving that keeps the lights on.
Whether you’re working in power generation, mining, oil & gas, or heavy industry, CLIMAX tools and support teams are here to help.
Contact us today to learn more about the PL2000 and other portable machining solutions, or to speak with a field expert about your specific application.