TCB Industrial has been awarded a draft tube and associated piping repair scope at a Northern California hydroelectric facility. Draft tubes and downstream piping are integral to turbine performance and structural stability, guiding flow while withstanding hydraulic forces, vibration, and long-term wear.
This award focuses on targeted repairs intended to restore serviceability, reduce vibration risk, and support continued reliable operation.
Scope context and technical considerations
Draft tube and piping repairs often address localized degradation such as surface wear, interface damage, or support deficiencies. While these issues may not immediately force an outage, they can degrade efficiency and accelerate fatigue if left unaddressed.
TCB’s approach emphasizes identifying repair boundaries clearly and selecting methods that integrate cleanly with existing civil and mechanical elements.
Access and sequencing
Work in draft tube areas typically involves confined geometry, limited access points, and proximity to water pathways. TCB’s execution plan includes access evaluation, ventilation considerations, and defined egress routes prior to mobilization.
Sequencing is structured to limit exposure time in constrained areas and to maintain stable conditions throughout repair activities.
Safety and environmental controls
Hydroelectric repair work introduces slip hazards, uneven surfaces, and potential residual moisture. TCB implements task-specific safety controls, including controlled access zones and continuous communication among crew members.
Environmental protections are applied as appropriate to prevent debris or materials from entering waterways during execution.
Value delivered
By completing targeted repairs, TCB helps facilities address degradation proactively, improving operational stability and reducing the likelihood of more extensive future repairs.
What this award represents
This project demonstrates TCB’s capability to execute specialized hydroelectric maintenance within challenging access environments, combining planning discipline with quality workmanship.
