Comprehensive Sealing of Manholes in North Wales
In wastewater management, effective sealing of manholes is crucial to prevent water infiltration and maintain operational efficiency. This project in North Wales highlighted Total Specialist Maintenance’s (TSM) expertise in addressing significant water infiltration issues for a local water company, ensuring the integrity of their infrastructure and reducing operational costs.
The Challenge
The client faced serious challenges with deep precast ringed manhole chambers that were suffering from major water infiltration due to poor construction practices. This issue led to substantial costs for the water company, particularly in managing groundwater levels at the nearby sewage treatment works. Key requirements included:
- Mitigating Water Infiltration: It was essential to develop a solution to effectively manage and reduce water infiltration, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of the wastewater system.
- Reducing High Costs: The excessive pumping of groundwater was incurring significant operational expenses, and finding a solution to minimise these costs was a priority for the client.
Why Manhole Sealing?
To effectively tackle the water infiltration issue, TSM recognised the need for a comprehensive sealing solution. This approach offered several benefits:
- Prevention of Water-Related Damage: By sealing the manholes, TSM aimed to improve overall functionality and protect the infrastructure from further damage caused by water ingress.
- Reduction in Operational Costs: A successful sealing solution would lead to lower operational costs associated with excessive pumping, allowing the water company to allocate resources more efficiently.
The Solution: Comprehensive Sealing
TSM implemented a thorough sealing process that included several critical steps:
- Over Pumping: To manage water levels effectively during the refurbishment works, TSM provided over-pumping services. This ensured that groundwater did not impede the sealing efforts and allowed for a safe working environment.
- Confined Space Training: Safety was a top priority. TSM ensured that all operatives were trained to City and Guilds standards for safe operations in confined spaces, equipping them with the necessary skills to work effectively and safely within the manhole chambers.
- Resin Injection: TSM applied resin injection techniques to target areas of infiltration. This method effectively sealed leaks, providing a durable barrier against future water ingress and significantly improving the structural integrity of the manhole.
- Concrete Repairs: The team conducted repairs to defective areas of the manholes, restoring their structural integrity. This involved assessing the condition of the existing concrete and applying appropriate repair materials to ensure a robust and long-lasting solution.
- Waterproof Tanking: TSM implemented waterproof tanking on the benching and walls of the manholes. This comprehensive approach provided complete protection against water ingress and further enhanced the durability of the infrastructure.
Project Management Excellence
TSM’s project management team effectively coordinated all aspects of the sealing process, ensuring the work was completed on time and within budget. Their commitment to quality control and adherence to safety protocols played a vital role in the successful execution of this project. Regular updates and communication with the client ensured that all expectations were met.
Environmental Considerations
Throughout the sealing process, TSM prioritised the use of environmentally friendly materials and methods. The selected solutions were designed to minimise environmental impact while providing superior protection against water infiltration.
