First UK application of new electrochem system
Keywords: Galvanizing, Corrosion prevention
Operators from Brookes (Northern) Limited recently installed a new galvanic protection system from electro chemical specialists Fosroc Ltd in one of the first applications of the product in the UK. Galvashield CC is being used to provide corrosion control at Moss Vale road bridge in Manchester for Trafford Borough Council. The bridge built in 1958 is a three-span reinforced concrete deck structure located on the busy Manchester to Warrington commuter line and installation work on the job has been restricted to between 12 midnight on Saturdays and 8 am on Sundays.Galvashield CC is said to be based on the well proven sacrificial properties of zinc when coupled to steel. The system comprises cylindrical mortar units containing a zinc anode, which are wired in sequence and placed into a grid of pre-drilled holes. When connected to the steel reinforcement, the grid passes a galvanic current through the steel reinforcement, suppressing anodic reactions and controlling corrosion. Providing, it is believed, up to 20 years of protection against chloride contamination, the system is reported to be extremely quick to install and does not require an external rectifier or ongoing maintenance. The anodes display intelligent behaviour by increasing the current when there is a high level of moisture or contamination.
Other recent Fosroc projects, this time in the field of construction chemicals comes with the specification of its sealants at the grounds of West Ham, Chelsea, Southampton and Sunderland football clubs.
Fosroc products have been used for the refurbishment of West Ham's west stand including the recently launched Nitoseal MS300, a one-part sealant for trafficked joints. This product provides abrasion resistance and was selected for its claimed excellent puncture resistance.
Additional Fosroc products applied at West Ham by specialist sealant contractor Miller Pattison include Thioflex 600 polysulphide joint sealant. This forms a tough elastic seal which will accommodate movements and is said to be also highly resistant to climatic extremes. Flamex Two, a flexible intumescent sealant, was also used to provide fire protection in joints. In the event of a fire, it is claimed that this product will prevent the passage of smoke though joints allowing additional time for the area to be evacuated.
Fosroc Products have also been used in the construction of the new Friends Provident Stadium, home to Southampton Football Club. Specified by Barr Steel and applied by Miller Pattison, Flamex Two and Thioflex 600 were applied to joints throughout the stadium which was opened in time for the start of the 2001 season.
Chelsea Football Club's new west stand, also know as the Millennium Stand,has been built using Nitoseal MS300 and Flamex S. The product was applied to all terrace units by Ipswich-based specialist sealant applicator Joint Masters.
In addition, Thioflex joint sealant was applied by M.J. Murphy Contracts Ltd throughout Sunderland's homeground, the Stadium of Light, when it was built last year. The company has also applied Thioflex at Tottenham's north and south stands.
Details available from: Fosroc Ltd. Tel: +1 (0) 121 454 2323.
