Extensive research and development of composite materials since the 1980s has given structural strengthening projects some enormous advantages. The materials are typically carbon fibre and epoxy resin based – producing strengths ranging from 2 -10 times that of steel and with stiffness properties that are twice the readings achieved with steel. Flexible materials facilitate the easy formation of complex shapes and with the low density nature of the composites the resulting repair materials do not corrode and are strong and light. The use of such techniques remove the need to replace whole structural elements and provide fast effective solutions.
Carbon Fibre Plates External bonding with carbon fibre strips increases the load bearing capacities and will also reduce deflection. Stress factors, dynamic or static loading conditions and fatigue resistance are also significantly improved. The application of the thin, lightweight There are a number of composite materials is relatively straightforward to almost any aspect as minimal preparation is required. A secure bond is made using adhesives which have also been extensively tested for performance under extreme conditions.
There are a number of systems available which naturally do not rust and with resistance to extreme temperatures, moisture, corrosive chemicals, UV light and fire; these systems can provide versatile strengthening solutions.
Carbon Glass Fibre Wrapping
Many structural strengthening projects benefit from Carbon / Glass fibre wrapping techniques. Quickseal's experience in this area enables sound advice, applications and cost effective solutions to be found at alI levels.
The use of Carbon fibre mesh sheeting allows for greater flexibility in the design of strengthening schemes that can be entertained. Columns carrying bridge sections and multi-storey car parks can be treated to increase the carrying capacity of the column loads. Externally applied wraps of Carbon fibre meshing is laminated to the circular columns dramatically altering the strength of members.
DML Composites
Bespoke design solutions to provide strengthening solutions to metal structural elements are available to provide optimised products with fibre orientation undertaken during the design stage to enable the composite section to carry the desired loads with minimal thickness and enable easy installation.
MASONRY ARCH REINFORCEMENT
Masonry elements are prone to defects caused by weathering effects and load bearing stresses of the structure as a whole. Masonry can deteriorate, crack and delaminate – most defects can now be overcome by the use of stress free stainless steel reinforcement – these used in conjunction with remedial ties, cementitious grouts and resins provide a comprehensive system of structural repair. Loads can be redistributed and load bearing capacities can be reinstated through the installation of lateral and radial bars along with restraining ties. Slots are chased into the structure, usually at mortar beds and stress free stainless steel reinforcement is embedded deep into the section depth creating load bearing beams. The concealed repairs offer time saving and sympathetic restoration of the masonry arches.
