Repairs At The Source Of Power
FPL’s Cutler Power Plant
In 1992, Florida Power and Light Company's Cutler Power Plant experienced rain damage in one of its generator’s electronic controls, located in a basement section where working space was tight. The replacement job, which also included some new construction in the switchyard, was bid among pre-qualified companies and was awarded to Megatran.
The job sequence was critical, as were the technical skills and the depth of knowledge. “It is not easy to qualify for work like this at power plants,” said Michael Acosta, PE, and current President of Megatran, “yet we have done similar jobs for several other electric utilities in Florida, including Tampa Electric, Seminole Electric Cooperative and other FPL generating units.
Then the Cutler’s job timetable, already tight, got worse. Another power plant developed a problem and Cutler Plant had to return on line much sooner.
“As I recall, Megatran not only redoubled their effort, but they also developed very smart ways to work the job so that we could get back on line in half the time,” said Brian Buckley, FPL Senior Plant Engineer in charge of the project at the plant.
According to Al Acosta, PE, then President and current CEO and CFO, “Our team was headed by Emilio Pimentel and Ray Arbesu—both of whom still work with us—and included expertise in high voltage testing and maintenance. And when time constraints turned critical, I became personally involved. We operate the same way with today’s leadership.”
When a customer suddenly runs into conditions that make the job “impossible,” Megatran has the depth of experience and commitment to make things work.
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