With millions of bolted connections to get right - quick, repeatable and accurate tightening processes matter in major solar power construction projects. The Kiewit Corporation, one of North America’s largest engineering and construction companies chose for those reasons the Atlas Copco Tensor ITB nutrunner with integrated controller.
An assembly process often starts with a single joining process where two or more objects are mechanically fastened. In doing so, it is absolutely essential getting the tightening exactly correct the very first time. And this is no more relevant than when the number of connections to be joined and tightened are measured in the millions.
In some solar power installation projects, we have over 5 million bolted connections. Being that these jobs are out in the field, knowing that we can get a quality connection right the first pass regardless if it’s muddy, sunny or raining is really important, says Jacob Metzger at Kiewit Corporation.
Kiewit is one of North America’s largest engineering and construction organizations with over 40 years of experience in developing renewable power projects including wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric.
In the last 15 years, over 50 solar projects have been completed in North America ranging from 2 MW to over 650 MW.
Quick, repeatable and accurate even at a lower torque level. But also small, durable and lightweight. It turned out that there really wasn’t a lot of alternatives available on the market that captured the niche and specifications we needed. The smart and functional Atlas Copco Tensor ITB nutrunnner turned out to be the perfect fit, says Jacob Metzger.
The Tensor ITB is a handheld, cordless battery powered nutrunner with an integrated controller for critical tightening jobs where quality, durability, safety and operator ergonomics are top priorities.
In the absence of external control box and cable connections in combination with a small and lightweight form factor, the Tensor ITB offers unprecedented accessibility even in the most cramped areas.
From a client satisfaction standpoint, it is important that our customers know that we have made the extra effort and investment to secure real quality tooling. To know that they not only have purchased a high quality product but also a high quality installation. The ITB tool product line really enabled us to delivery upon those promises, says Jacob Metzger.
Smart Integrated Assembly is the Atlas Copco concept for industrial manufacturers looking to transform and implement smarter production in Smart Factories. A comprehensive Industry 4.0 solutions portfolio including smart connected assembly tools for factories and field operations, fully integrated assembly line solutions from design to production, as well as a unique set of data driven services.
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