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Case Study - Stabilizing a 5.75 Million Pound Space Launch System

Posted by Andy Powell on Mar 14, 2024 10:00:00 AM

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In Cape Canaveral, Florida, a heavily loaded slap stand structure was planned for construction along a transfer aisle in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). This slap stand would be critical in servicing the proposed Space Launch System vehicle (SLS). However, the project faced a significant challenge when it was discovered that the near-surface subsoils consisted of loose fill materials susceptible to further densification and volume loss due to vibrations and water infiltration. With the slap stand tentatively designed to bear directly upon the ground-level floor slab of the VAB, the degree of subsoil support beneath the floor slab section became a critical concern.

Powerful Polymers

To address this issue, the geotechnical engineer of record recommended a ground improvement solution using permeation grout. Helicon, a leading soil stabilization contractor, worked alongside the geotechnical design team to develop a permeation grout program that would meet the building code load criteria. AP Soil 600, a high-strength, hydro-insensitive structural polyurethane foam, was selected as the ideal product for this project due to its exceptional ability to support heavy structures.

Painless Procedure

Helicon’s technicians installed permeation grout injection pipes on a center-to-center spacing of approximately 2 feet across each of the slap stand areas. The injection points were driven to a depth of at least 5 feet below the floor slab grade. Grout was injected at a relatively low pressure (less than 50 psi), and grout needles were slowly withdrawn during pumping to ensure a uniform distribution of grout to about 3 feet below the bottom of the slab level. The amount of grout used was carefully controlled, with less than 15 gallons per foot per injection point.

Rapid Result

The permeation grout project was a resounding success, effectively improving the load-bearing capacity of the existing soils at the site. The precise application of AP Soil 600 ensured that the slap stand structure would have a stable and reliable foundation, allowing for the safe and efficient servicing of the Space Launch System vehicle. Thanks to Helicon’s expertise and the power AP Soil 600, this piece of critical infrastructure in Cape Canaveral was reinforced and readied for countless future space exploration missions.

Want more information on stabilizing soil with polyurethane?

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Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil

Register for Alchatek 2024 Spring Training

Posted by Kreg Thornley on Mar 1, 2024 2:31:13 PM

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Body - Register for Alchatek Spring Training-1Essential Details

Dates/Pricing

Slab Lifting Masterclass: April 15th & 16th, 2024 – $685.00
Public Works Infrastructure Repair: April 18th & 19th, 2024 – $685.00

Location

Spray Foam Systems
1502 Airport Rd.
Greensboro, GA 30642
Click Here for Directions

Discounts

Register for both classes - 25% discount
Register by 5:30 pm Eastern on March 22nd - 10% discount

Slab Lifting Masterclass: April 15th & 16th, 2024 – $685.00

The concrete lifting master is an intensive opportunity to learn what it takes to start a concrete lifting business and then take it to the next level. The training you will receive will include Safety, Site Evaluation, Estimating, Product Selection, Sales, Equipment, Concrete Lifting Techniques, and Deep Lift / Deep Lock. You will also learn about taking your concrete lifting business to the next level. You will learn about other tools we have to help you land bigger jobs and how to engage the engineering community to gain access to unique markets. Join the industry’s top team of concrete lifting professionals for training, learning, and fun.

Public Works: April 18th & 19th, 2024 – $685.00

The public works course is two days dedicated to training and teaching Public Works professionals and specialty grouting contractors. You will learn how to utilize polyurethane technology to solve problems that municipalities and public works departments commonly face and how to do it at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. There will be a heavy emphasis on sealing underground infrastructure and stabilizing and lifting roads. We will cover the full spectrum of our product line including Leak Seal, Permeation, Soil Stabilization, and Slab Lifting. Join the industry’s top team of infrastructure specialists for training, learning, and fun.

Click Here to Register NOW!

Topics: All Posts, Lift Slabs, Seal Leaks, Stabilize Soil, Business Tips, Fill Voids, Deep Lock, Crack Injection, Training, Curtain Grouting, Municipal Resources, Events

Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 3. Contact Alchatek for Assistance

Posted by Jacob Bryant on Feb 7, 2024 2:00:00 PM

Banner - Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 3. Contact Alchatek for Assistance

Body - Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 3. Contact Alchatek for AssistanceBefore embarking on any bird bath repair project using the Deep Lock® process, it's crucial to consult with industry specialists. The Alchatek support team, with extensive experience in advanced pavement repair techniques, offers invaluable insights for assessing site conditions, choosing appropriate materials, and implementing effective repair strategies.

In addition, Alchatek has established connections with skilled contractors proficient in the Deep Lock® process. Ask for referrals to trusted professionals who ensure the safe and efficient execution of your pavement repair projects.

Partner for Success

Don't leave the durability and safety of your roads to chance. Partner with Alchatek to harness the full potential of the Deep Lock® process for your bird bath repair needs. Our expertise in advanced road repair techniques makes us the ideal ally in ensuring long-lasting and effective solutions.

Reach Out Today

To learn more about how Alchatek can assist in your road repair projects or to get connected with experienced contractors, contact Alchatek.

Call 404-618-0438 or fill out this form to contact Alchatek today!

Download an Info-Packed Deep Lock Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Deep Lock, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 2. Deep Lock® Repair

Posted by Jacob Bryant on Feb 7, 2024 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 2. Deep Lock® Repair

Body - Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 2. Deep Lock® RepairIn the previous post, the causes and consequences of bird baths in road pavement were explored. Now, attention will turn to an innovative solution for repairing these issues: the Deep Lock® process.

The Deep Lock® Process Explained

The Deep Lock® process is a unique method for stabilizing and repairing bird baths in roadways. Here's how it works:

  1. Site Evaluation: It starts with a comprehensive site evaluation, including soil borings, Dynamic Cone Penetration (DCP) testing, and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) as necessary.
  2. Preparing the Area: Potential binding issues are addressed with saw cutting, clearing joints, and removing old grout.
  3. Grid Spacing and Injection Depths: Based on the soil data, specialists calculate grid spacing and injection depths.
  4. Injection Process: Specialized grout rods are driven to the correct depths and locations.
  5. Polymer Injection: Structural polymers are injected in a predetermined sequence. During this, lift is monitored to determine when sufficient compaction has been achieved.
  6. Adjusting Injection Depths: The grout plan is followed, adjusting injection depths and locations as the soil stabilizes beneath the structure.

Equipment and Materials

The process utilizes high-quality structural polymers, including AP Deep Lift 420, AP Lift 430, AP Lift 440, and AP Lift 475. These materials are chosen for their strength, environmental safety, and their NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 certification for contact with drinking water. This means they can be used without negatively impacting water quality.

Securing Repair Contracts

For contractors looking to secure bird bath repair jobs:

  • Reach out to Departments of Transportation (DOTs), cities, and municipalities.
  • Network with neighborhood and Homeowners' Association (HOA) associations.
  • Emphasize your ability to provide a quick, environmentally safe solution with minimal disruption.

Deep Lock® Repair for Bird Baths

The Deep Lock® process offers a revolutionary approach to repairing bird baths in road pavement. With its quick application, minimal environmental impact, and long-lasting results, it stands as a preferred choice for modern road maintenance. If you're facing bird bath issues on your roadways, consider consulting a professional who specializes in the Deep Lock® process for effective, durable repairs.

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

Download an Info-Packed Deep Lock Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Deep Lock, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 1. Introduction

Posted by Jacob Bryant on Feb 6, 2024 2:00:00 PM

Banner - Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 1. Introduction

Body - Road Pavement Bird Bath Repair Series - 1. IntroductionHave you ever noticed shallow, pond-like formations on the surface of roads, particularly in private neighborhoods, subdivisions, or parking lots? These are known as "bird baths" in the road surface, and they're more than just a quirk of the road. They signify deeper issues in road maintenance and safety that are crucial to address.

What are Bird Baths in Road Pavement?

Bird baths are small depressions in the road surface where water accumulates. Unlike potholes, bird baths are shallower and often wider, resembling a natural birdbath. They typically form in areas where the pavement has sunk or where water is unable to drain properly. These features are commonly seen in areas with lower traffic, like private neighborhoods and parking lots, where regular maintenance may not be as common.

Causes and Consequences

The primary causes of bird baths in pavement include tire ruts from repetitive vehicle traffic and insufficient soil compaction during road construction. Over time, the weight of vehicles passing over the same spot causes the pavement to deform, creating these depressions. Additionally, if the underlying soil was not compacted properly, it can settle unevenly, leading to surface irregularities.

The presence of bird baths is not merely a cosmetic issue. They can pose significant trip hazards for pedestrians, especially when hidden by water or ice. For vehicles, these depressions can lead to uncomfortable rides and, in some cases, damage to the vehicle itself. In winter, bird baths can be particularly dangerous as they form ice patches, posing a risk for both vehicles and pedestrians. Furthermore, they can also cause problems for snowplows, leading to inefficient snow removal and additional road wear.

Road Pavement Birth Baths

Understanding the causes and effects of bird baths in road pavement is crucial for effective road maintenance and safety. Addressing these issues not only improves the longevity of the pavement but also ensures a safer environment for all road users. The next part of the series will delve into bird bath repair methods, focusing on innovative techniques offering long-lasting solutions, such as the Deep Lock ® process.

Want more information about the Deep Lock® process?

Download an Info-Packed Deep Lock Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Deep Lock, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 5. Contact Alchatek for Assistance

Posted by Andy Powell on Feb 2, 2024 2:00:00 PM

1. Banner - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 5. Contact Alchatek for Assistance

2. Body - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 5. Contact Alchatek for AssistancePolyurethane foam can be used in a variety of new construction projects, from road widening to zero lot line excavation projects to a variety of complex excavation and foundation support scenarios. The use of polyurethane stabilization techniques provides clear advantages like cost-effectiveness, strength, and versatility across a wide range of situations. However, properly implementing them requires extensive technical expertise in assessing site conditions, selecting the right materials, and creating effective injection plans.

Technical Guidance and Contractor Referrals

Before hiring a contractor to do any polyurethane injection work, consultation with industry specialists is highly recommended. With decades of experience in chemical grouting, the Alchatek support team possesses in-depth knowledge for assessing site conditions and challenges. 

In addition, Alchatek maintains strong relationships with experienced polyurethane foam application contractors. Referrals are available to reputable construction experts who can safely and effectively execute projects.

A Partner for Success

Don't leave the success of your new construction endeavor to chance. Connect with the specialists at Alchatek to leverage the full benefits of polyurethane foam for upcoming projects. Reach out today!

Call 404-618-0438 or fill out this form to contact Alchatek today!

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

Download an Info-Packed Soil Stabilization Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 4. Supporting New Footings and Slabs

Posted by Andy Powell on Feb 2, 2024 10:00:00 AM

1. Banner - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 4. Supporting New Footings and Slabs-1

2. Body - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 4. Supporting New Footings and Slabs-1In new construction projects, establishing a solid foundation for footings and slabs is crucial, especially in challenging soil conditions. Polyurethane foam offers a groundbreaking approach to improving soil stability, a key factor in the longevity and safety of new structures.

Cost-Effective and Durable

In new construction, utilizing polyurethane foam for soil stabilization beneath new footings and slabs presents a more economical and efficient approach compared to the conventional practice of excavating and replacing unstable soil. This method not only reduces costs but also greatly enhances the structural integrity of the foundation.

Effective in Waterlogged Conditions

One of the standout features of polyurethane foam is its efficiency in waterlogged or saturated soil conditions. The foam's ability to displace water ensures a stable base, even in areas with high water tables. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for constructions in challenging terrains, where water presence can complicate traditional building methods.

Supporting New Footings and Slabs with Polyurethane

The application of polyurethane foam underneath new footings and slabs represents a significant advancement in construction technology, offering a more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable method for building stable foundations.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

Download an Info-Packed Soil Stabilization Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 3. Complex Excavation

Posted by Andy Powell on Feb 1, 2024 2:00:00 PM

1. Banner - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 3. Complex Excavation

2. Body - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 3. Complex ExcavationAs construction excavation projects continue to push the boundaries of complexity, innovative solutions are needed to ensure safety and stability. Polyurethane foam has emerged as an indispensable tool for these unique challenges. With a dual capability to stabilize soil and complement traditional retaining methods like sheet piling or secant walls, polyurethane foam provides robust support precisely when and where it is most needed. Whether plugging gaps to prevent infiltration, enhancing structural support, or sealing out soil in deep foundation pits, this versatile material enables advanced excavations that would otherwise be extremely risky if not impossible.

Support for Traditional Excavation Methods

Polyurethane foam serves the important dual role of both stabilizing soil and supporting traditional methods in complex excavation projects. Used alongside methods like sheet piling and secant piling, the foam creates an impermeable curtain wall injection that seals out the soil. This barrier is crucial for maintaining the stability of surrounding structures.

An Indispensable Modern Tool 

The versatile applications of polyurethane foam demonstrate its indispensability in modern construction. Its ability to adapt to challenging excavation scenarios and bolster conventional techniques makes the foam a critical component in ensuring safe and successful projects.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

Download an Info-Packed Soil Stabilization Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 2. Zero Lot Line Excavation

Posted by Andy Powell on Feb 1, 2024 10:00:00 AM

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2. Body - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 2. Zero Lot Line ExcavationExcavating near existing structures, particularly in zero lot line scenarios like building additions, poses unique challenges. Traditional methods like sheet piling, while effective, can cause issues such as adjacent structure disruption, soil settlement, and excessive noise, making them less ideal in dense, urban environments.

Polyurethane Grout Walls

The use of polyurethane grout walls, composed of interlocking columns, offers a more suitable solution. This method involves injecting a single component, like AP Soil 600, into non-cohesive soil, creating a stable barrier that supports the excavation site without affecting the adjacent structure.

The Advantages of Polyurethane in Non-Cohesive Soils 

In non-cohesive, loose soils, polyurethane grout walls provide several benefits:

  1. Reduced Structural Impact: They minimize the risk of damaging nearby structures.
  2. Lower Noise Levels Compared to Sheet Piling: The installation of polyurethane grout walls is significantly quieter than the installation of sheet piles.
  3. Soil Stability: Polyurethane enhances soil stability, ensuring safety during and after excavation.

This approach is not suitable for more cohesive soils in which the installation of grout columns is not possible, emphasizing the need for careful soil assessment beforehand. This installation of grout walls to stabilize adjacent structures during excavation is a more precise and less invasive alternative to traditional methods.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

Download an Info-Packed Soil Stabilization Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources

Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 1. Road Widening

Posted by Andy Powell on Jan 31, 2024 2:00:00 PM

1. Banner - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 1. Road Widening

2. Body - Geotech Solutions for New Construction Series - 1. Road WideningRoad widening projects, essential for improving traffic flow and infrastructure, traditionally involve digging up and replacing unstable soil. This method, however, poses risks to existing roads and is both costly and time-consuming. The use of polyurethane foam to stabilize existing soil is often more efficient and effective.

The Use of Polyurethane Foam 

In non-cohesive soils, which are loose and permeable, a single-component material like AP Fill 700 is most effective for ground permeation. For cohesive soils like clay, a dual-component material such as AP Lift 475 is more suitable for ground compaction. These materials are injected in a grid pattern to stabilize the soil beneath the road.

Advantages Over Traditional Methods 

This new approach offers significant benefits:

  1. Minimized Risk to Adjacent Structures: Unlike traditional methods, polyurethane foam injection does not destabilize adjacent areas.
  2. Cost-Effectiveness: The process reduces both material and labor costs.
  3. Time Efficiency: Foam injection is faster, accelerating project completion.

The use of polyurethane foam in road widening not only enhances efficiency but also maintains the integrity of adjacent structures, marking a significant advancement in construction technology.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

Download an Info-Packed Soil Stabilization Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Municipal Resources, Commercial Property Resources