CHEMICAL INGREDIENT PLANT, HAMILTON

STRUCTURAL REHABILITATION

OVERVIEW

FORSMITH Building Science Consultants (FORSMITH) was tasked with conducting assessments to determine the structural adequacy of a chemical ingredient plant in Hamilton. Based on the findings of the investigations, FORSMITH was tasked with proposing appropriate and cost-effective remedial designs that to maintain standard operations.

PROBLEM

Upon initial investigation, FORSMITH had identified through visual observations and exploratory test cuts and excavations, that acidic materials were responsible for substantial deterioration of the structure. The acid was found to deteriorate concrete when able to migrate into cavities and holes, and after long periods of exposure the concrete was eventually deteriorated.

In addition to this, many structural elements were overloaded and required immediate rehabilitation to keep the plant operational.

Structual Engineering Toronto Mississauga Oakville Burlington Hamilton

CHALLENGE

FORSMITH had found that multiple structural components had suffered severe deterioration and were at extreme risk of compromised structural performance. The main challenge was that the clients tasked FORSMITH with ensuring that all necessary repairs were completed with minimal downtime from their manufacturing processes. Therefore FORSMITH was tasked with identifying and solving structural deformities as necessary without interfering with the operations of the chemical plant unless necessary to maintain the efficiency of the plant.

SOLUTION

FORSMITH developed and implemented structural restoration plans that were cost-effective and minimized the otherwise invasive and time consuming rehabilitation. This allowed the plant to minimize downtime for repairs, maximizing their operational efficiency while restoring the structural adequacy of the manufacturing plant.

By restoring the deficiencies identified through investigation, and applying acid-resistant coatings to compromised areas, the repaired structure is now stronger in acid-protection to minimize the effect any potential acid spills may pose in the future.