Cast Iron Repair

Our business is centered on a permanent mechanical repair for cast iron and machine parts
denoted as "Metal Locking". This mechanical approach to the repair of vital machine parts
was conceived as the solution to the problems of welding or brazing.
Metal Locking has grown in application from small water pumps to enormous turbinegenerating equipment, from the local gas station to the nation's largest steel mills. No heat is
used, thus no stresses are introduced and very little if any post-repair machining is
necessary to correct misalignment and warpage. Since there is no heat, Metal Locking
repairs can be made in restricted areas where flame or welding arc is prohibited. Repairs are
often made on location, without the necessity of major disassembly.
We are capable of performing this service at our shop or yours! We pride ourselves on our
ability to reach destinations quickly, often within 24 hours, and in the most cost-effective
manner. Please view our Testimonial page for an example of our ability to mobilize and
satisfy a customer in an emergency.
What is Metal Locking?
1. A drilling fixture is attached at right angles to the crack. A hole pattern
is drilled and repeated at intervals of 3/4" to 1-1/4" inches apart.
2. The metal between each drilled hole is removed by ripping it away
with pneumatic tools to form a slot. The stock removed is narrower than
the drilled hole, thus forming a serrated opening.
3. Preformed locks of high tensile alloy are inserted into the slot. These
locks are peened into the slots, one on top of the other, to a depth
limited by the casting thickness and determined by the strength
required.
4. After the locks are installed, holes are drilled and tapped and threaded fasteners are
applied. These are spotted along the entire length of the crack, overlapping one another.
Their purpose, in part, is to fill the fracture with new metal and provide a pressure seal.
5. The entire repair area is peened flush and finish ground as you see here
The Metal Locking technique can be used to repair everything from casting faults, broken
machinery and improper machining to intricate items such as marine engines and gears. We
are able to work on a wide array of materials including work-hardened and heat-treated
items. When repair parts are not readily available, we often produce custom
replacements in-house.
The repair and replacement of internal engine components for the automotive, locomotive
and trucking industries constitute a large portion of our business. All are extreme
environments where craftsmanship and durability are of the utmost importance.