Warren, Best of luck with an extremely difficult situation. I strongly suspect that Cajun knowhow and good business sense will help you and your customer reach an equitable resolution. On the technical side, I've done all sorts of plate repairs with different welding, epoxy, bolting, whatever techniques seemed good at the time. My favorite is still heating the whole plate (as Danny Moore noted, to about 900 F) welding, stress relief. Certainly, however, most of the other methods mentioned are absolutely viable, when done competently. (I think that my vote would go to one of the inert gas variants, as that method so localizes the heat that, with proper shielding, you may not have to destring.) Much will depend on who runs what kind of service in your area. Should be several good shipwrights in New Orleans... At the risk of being accused of practicing law without a license, please allow me to suggest that a reasonably prudent person might take Danny's legal suggestions as a good starting point. This is a time of much angst, great unhappiness, with much egg on, and loss of face (if only internally). There is no joy in Mudville. My profound sympathies. I'll light an extra candle, and think good, humorous, positive thoughts in your general direction. Best. Horace Horace Greeley Systems Analyst/Engineer Controller's Office Stanford University email: hgreeley@leland.stanford.edu voice mail: 650.725.9062 fax: 650.725.8014
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