Expansion Joints for Power Plants and Gas Turbines was the Hot Topic on February 24, 2011

Brad Hilton, USA Coordinator and Technical Director for Bachmann Dampjoint, Inc. (BDI), discussed both metal and fabric joints with the focus on two applications in the high temperature zone. These included penetrations to the boiler itself and in the economizer region. One of the interesting options is to use the existing leaking metal joint and to encompass it with a fabric joint. The metal joint then becomes the liner for the fabric joint.

Christopher L. Dyjak, Manager for Expansion Joints at Effox-Flextor, a CECO Environmental Company, emphasized the importance of utilizing proper application information in the initial design of expansion joints. One example is a joint in an FGD system. If the temperature could potentially drop to the dew point, then it is a more difficult application because of the risk of acid corrosion. External insulation is recommended when the temperatures will never exceed the fabric limit and there is the potential for acid condensation.

The general discussion involved the networking potential with the new BizKnowNet. Attendees at Electric Power who are also McIlvaine subscribers can be listed with their emails and mobile numbers so that other attendees and exhibitors can arrange meetings with them.

From the discussion, it was revealed that all the expansion joint suppliers with the exception of Clyde Bergemann will be walking the floor rather than exhibiting. McIlvaine observed that is even more important to participate in the networking if you are not exhibiting. No one will assume you are even at the show if you do not have a stand. But if they see through our listing that you are there and can reach you by mobile or email, it will be easy to arrange meetings.

This networking option will be equally valuable to our utility subscribers. Why should you have to chase down suppliers? With our listings you provide access but also the stipulation of what subjects you are interested in discussing. Suppliers are not going to pester you with unwanted information if your needs are expressed. It is a waste of their time as well as yours.

Another feature of the system is the display of individual pictures. If you do not know the person you are seeking, you may walk by him unaware. But with the pictures you will increase the number of opportunistic contacts. The pictures generally add the personal touch to the whole digital experience. In general the interaction at these big conferences is haphazard and inefficient. The BizKnowNet networking will make it less so.

The Bio, Photo and Abstract are linked below.
BIO, PHOTO, ABSTRACT - February 24, 2011.htm