The old 3/4-inch steam line on the Johnson job let go right at a weld yesterday.

We had to shut down the whole system and cut out a six-inch section, which put us a full day behind. What's your go-to method for a quick, solid patch when you're under pressure like that?

4 comments

4 Comments

abbyf7911d agoMost Upvoted

Let go at the weld" is the worst. Been there.

kevinw9411d ago

Yeah, it's the sudden shock that gets you. One second you're holding it steady, the next your whole arm is vibrating. Makes you feel like a beginner again.

casey34210d ago

Man, my buddy learned that the hard way. He was grinding down a weld on some thick plate, thought he had a good grip. The wheel caught, the grinder kicked back hard, and it ripped right out of his hands. It shot across the shop like a rocket and put a huge dent in the garage door. He just stood there, white as a sheet, staring at the spinning tool on the floor. Never saw him hold one with just one hand again.

the_ben10d ago

Grab the tool right behind the guard with your other hand before you even pull the trigger. That extra point of contact makes all the difference. It stops that kick from turning into a full arm shake. Took me way too long to figure that one out, honestly. Now it's just a habit, and I barely notice the torque anymore.