EXPANSION JOINT FAILURE AT GRAND GULF   February 21st 1999   It has recently been brought to our attention through an event report furnished by a concerned customer, of another “Dogbone” expansion joint failure at the Grand Gulf Nuclear Station. For those unfamiliar with the application, this expansion joint, also known as a Belt Type, is located between the low pressure turbine and the surface condenser. The failure of this product and the subsequent loss of vacuum will cause the plant to shut down, resulting in significant monetary losses and potential damage to plant equipment. This event report has generated many calls from our customers inquiring as to LaFavorites’ knowledge of this recent event.     Please be advised that LaFavorite Industries, its’ products or services, were NOT involved in this incident.     As a leading manufacturer of the “Dogbone” expansion joint we are always concerned whenever a premature failure occurs, since this reflects negatively on the product as a whole. While others may choose to compromise quality in the interest of supplying a cheap product, LaFavorite takes pride in the many improvements we have made to “Dogbone” expansion joints.   We would like to take this opportunity to assure our customers that they have received the highest quality products and splicing service available. Since 1986 when our nylon reinforced “Dogbone” was introduced, we have received no reports of product or splicing failures. As a matter of fact the splicing procedure employed by LaFavorite was developed specifically for this product and is not simply an adaptation of a conveyor belt splice, as performed by other vendors. To our knowledge, no other vender uses the same method of splicing as LaFavorite.   The “Dogbone” expansion joint has proven to be a very effective product when properly manufactured, installed and spliced by experienced technicians. While “Dogbones” of different makers may look similar, many differences can exist in the component materials, that can effect product life and performance. LaFavorite was the first company to manufacture this product using nylon reinforcement and continues to do so, while other suppliers are still offering products using materials long ago proven to be inferior.   LaFavorite is committed to providing the very best products and services to the entire power generation industry, as demonstrated by our exemplary record. If you have any questions or concerns about your “Dogbone” expansion joints or are planning a replacement, please contact LaFavorite and let our many years of experience and integrity work for you.     Sincerely,   Thomas B Mastin, President   Eric C Hague, Vice-President       Elastomeric Products Mechanical Packings . Condenser Expansion Joints . Specialty Seals . Custom Molding About Us  Contact Us  Ordering  Conditions of Sale We now accept

La Favorite Industries, Inc. 33 Shady Street, Paterson, New Jersey 07524