A B767 flight crew reported pressurization malfunction on initial climb and return to departure airport.
Synopsis
A B767 flight crew reported pressurization malfunction on initial climb and return to departure airport.
Narrative
After engine start on initial pushback; we noticed a FWD EQPT VAL EICAS in conjunction with a VALVE annunciator illuminated on the overhead panel. We contacted Dispatch and Maintenance; ran the appropriate checklist (didn't fix it); then coordinated a return to gate. With no parts available to replace the valve; MX (Maintenance) applied an MEL which I believe locked the valve closed. After work was completed and paperwork sorted; we taxied out and took off approximately one hour late. On climb out approaching FL100; we noticed that the cabin pressure was having a hard time keeping up with the climb. I decreased my climb rate to give the pressurization system time to catch up; and eventually leveled off at approximately FL120. It was during this time that we got a Cabin Altitude warning horn. We immediately accomplished the CABIN ALTITUDE QRC Checklist; donning our O2 masks and coordinating a descent to FL80. The warning horn ceased sometime during this descent. After taking care of immediate items in the cockpit I contacted the lead Flight Attendant to ensure everyone was OK (they were) and asked if any PAX (Passenger) O2 masks had dropped. They had not. We coordinated with ATC for a return to ZZZZ for an overweight landing. We took care of all checklists and coordination in holding at ZZZZ1; then were vectored for an ILS XXR at ZZZZ. I (Captain) flew the approach and overweight landing.Fire trucks met us as we exited the runway. Since our BTMS (Brake Temperature Monitoring System) values were approaching rapidly approaching 5 due to the overweight landing; we coordinated with GND (Ground) and the lead fire truck to hold on Taxiway 1 northwest of [Taxiway] 2; away from anyone and anything. After 10-15 minutes the BTMS values reduced to 4 and below; at which point we taxied to a hard stand with fire escort; parked; and deplaned PAX and crew.
Second reporter narrative
After engine start FWD EQPT VAL light illuminated. Return to gate and call Maintenance. Valve is wired closed and MEL applied. On climb crew noticed unusually high cabin ALT and popping sensation in ears. Shortly after CABIN ALT warning appears on EICAS and horn sounds. Immediate action items were completed and a descent to 10000. Coordinating with Dispatch and ATC we decided to return to ZZZZ. Overweight landing on [Runway] XXR followed by checklist which had us wait for BTMS (Brake Temperature Monitoring System) return to normal range before coming near equipment or crew.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.