SFM completed the restoration of a 60″ diameter gate valve which was manufactured in the late 1800’s for the Sault Ste. Marie Canal system. This valve was originally in operation with a water turbine that generated power for the Soo Locks. The age and size of this component posed a challenge as it weighed almost 16,000 lbs fully assembled and was covered in lead paint. Caution had to be taken to carefully document the components used in the valve during disassembly. We also had to assess their condition, and machining had to be done using our CNC boring mill. Various parts required redesign and modification to make the valve functional and efficient while still maintaining its historical value to put on display. At the end of this project the customer received a detailed 100-page report outlining the complete rebuild of this century old valve.
