When a century-old potable water reservoir began losing thousands of gallons per day due to cracks and structural damage from seismic activity, the city faced a critical challenge: restore the tank quickly without compromising water quality. UCC was contracted as the hands-on installation team, performing an NSF 61 carbon fiber application to reinforce the structure and prevent future leaks.
The Challenge:
A Compromised Water Supply
The Sunset Heights Pump Station and Reservoir, an essential part of the region’s potable water infrastructure, sustained extensive cracks and leaks after a magnitude 5.0 earthquake. Tree root intrusion and roof leaks further weakened the structure, creating both water loss and structural safety concerns.
Because the reservoir supplied a significant portion of the city’s drinking water, downtime needed to be minimized, making efficient concrete water tank repair a top priority.
UCC’s Role in the Rehabilitation Process
As a trusted subcontractor to the project’s general contractor, UCC deployed a crew to work alongside the carbon fiber engineering team during the year-long project. UCC’s scope of work included:
- Surface Preparation: Cleaning and prepping all concrete surfaces for optimal adhesion.
- Environmental Control: Managing confined space ventilation systems to ensure safe working conditions, while monitoring humidity and temperature to meet strict product application requirements.
- Carbon Fiber Application: Installing NSF 61-certified carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) wraps to the tank’s floors, ceilings, and support columns, enhancing seismic strength and corrosion resistance.
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Overcoming Extreme Working Conditions
Working in an underground tank meant no diving was required, but the conditions were still highly challenging. On some days during extreme heat, the exothermic reaction of the CFRP material shortened the available working time for application. Careful planning, efficient execution, and strict safety protocols allowed the UCC team to maintain consistent quality despite the demanding conditions.
Results:
Extended Service Life and Compliance
The completed potable water tank rehabilitation reinforced the reservoir’s structure at a fraction of the time and cost of replacement. The NSF 61 carbon fiber application ensured compliance for drinking water storage, while the CFRP wrap added decades of service life and enhanced resilience against future seismic activity.
Why Choose UCC for Carbon Fiber Structural Strengthening?
Unparalleled Infrastructure Expertise
From bridges and piers to building column and concrete water tanks, UCC delivers the most cost-effective and innovative carbon wrap solutions for reinforcement. Our unmatched combination of commercial diving and underwater construction experience ensures your project is completed efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards.
Advanced Technology, Trusted Results
By using dependable carbon fiber engineered solutions with our precision installation methods, we make it easy to restore and extend the life of your infrastructure. The result: a longer lasting structure and the confidence of knowing you have invested in a high-tech, reliable solution.
Certified Installation Team
Our crews are trained and certified to install products that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61 requirements for potable water system components, ensuring compliance with critical safety and health regulations.
Industry-Leading Safety and Quality
UCC’s rigorous safety protocols, quality control measures, and deep understanding of challenging environments sets us apart as a trusted choice for complex structural strengthening projects.
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Leverage Our Expertise for Potable Water Tank Rehabilitation
Our expertise in carbon fiber installation and infrastructure rehabilitation extends from potable water tanks to marine structures, delivering lasting results under the most challenging conditions. Contact us today to learn more about our specialized carbon fiber services.