Alchatek Blog

In Salt Lake City, Utah, a historic brick structure built in 1893 showed signs of foundation settlement. The building's sandstone foundation presented a challenge. Traditional stabilization methods like installing helical piers could potentially cause further damage. Rhino Foundation Systems proposed a solution using polyurethane foam to stabilize the foundation. This case study examines how this approach addressed the building's foundation problems.

Powerful Polymers

The technicians selected AP Lift 430 polyurethane foam for the project. This foam was chosen for its ideal soil stabilization and structural support properties. The plan involved injecting the foam beneath the footings to provide a stable support platform. This method would achieve the desired stabilization without requiring extensive excavation.

Painless Procedures

The project began with a detailed site assessment to understand the extent of the settlement and soil conditions. Following this, the team designed a plan to install 63 deep foam injections under the foundation, ensuring comprehensive coverage and stabilization. Specialized equipment was then used to perform these deep injections, with the foam strategically placed to improve the soil and stabilize the foundation.

Rapid Results

The project delivered several key benefits. Deep foam injections improved the soil and provided a strong platform for the foundation, ensuring effective stabilization. The non-invasive process precluded the need for extensive excavation, preserving the structure and minimizing disruption. Notably, the project was completed in just two days, significantly reducing downtime and disturbance to the area. Finally, the polyurethane foam injections offered a cost-effective solution compared to traditional stabilization methods, making it an economically viable option for similar foundation challenges.

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The management team at a community pool in Midvale, Utah, faced a significant challenge. A water leak had saturated the silty soil beneath the structure, causing uneven settlement and safety hazards. To address this issue, they brought in geotechnical specialists from Rhino Foundation Systems, who proposed an innovative solution as an alternative to tearing out and replacing the pool. This approach not only promised to stabilize the pool but also lift it back to its proper position.

Powerful Polymers

The key to this solution was Alchatek's AP Lift 440 polyurethane foam. This powerful polymer was chosen for its soil stabilization, load-bearing, and lifting capabilities. Deep soil injections were planned to address the underlying issues. The foam's expanding properties would displace water and stabilize the soil base. This method offered a non-invasive alternative to traditional approaches like helical piles.

Painless Procedures

The process began with a thorough site assessment. The technicians analyzed soil saturation and settlement patterns. Based on this data, a 3-foot by 5-foot injection grid was designed. Next, holes were drilled through the bottom of the pool, and injection rods were installed. AP Lift 440 was injected beneath the structure. As a result, the expanding foam displaced water and stabilized the soil base. Following this, the pool was lifted by 3.5 inches. Finally, the pool deck was adjusted to match the new level.

Rapid Results

The pool was successfully stabilized and leveled with minimal disruption. Moreover, there was no need for extensive excavation. This method proved to be both effective and efficient. The foam injections effectively displaced water and stabilized the soil. Additionally, the lifting process was precise, raising the pool by exactly 3.5 inches. Perhaps most importantly, this solution was cost-effective. It proved quicker and more economical than complete pool replacement.

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A power outage at a high-rise condo building recently demonstrated the importance of proper underground power line installation. Soil settlement caused the power lines in the duct banks to shear off, cutting electricity to the entire building. Ironically, concrete poured over the lines to "protect" them had contributed to the settlement. With power cut off from the entire building, ownership was paying thousands per hour for emergency generators. A quick, durable repair was essential. Geotechnical experts from SiteMix Pressure Grouting, LLC tackled the problem using innovative techniques and materials.

Powerful Polymers

AP Lift 475, a high-strength polymer, was crucial for this stabilization project. Its placement near the condo's footing made this material the perfect choice. AP Lift 475 provides exceptional load-bearing capacity, which is ideal for supporting large structures. The polymer's robust properties ensure long-term support for the repaired power lines. Moreover, its strength offers a reliable foundation for the electrical system, preventing future settlement issues.

Painless Procedures

The repair process began with careful excavation. In order to access the crushed duct banks 12 feet below grade, the workers removed soil and concrete next to the building. Next, the geotech team installed 15-foot injection rods into the soil below the duct banks for deep soil stabilization, a technique also known as Deep Lock®. The team methodically created a grid pattern with 12 injection points, each spaced about 3 feet apart. This systematic approach ensures thorough soil treatment throughout the affected area. The specialists achieved comprehensive stabilization by injecting the polymer at multiple points, addressing all potential weak spots in the soil structure.

Rapid Results

The entire project was completed in less than two days. Once the soil was stabilized, electricians safely reinstalled power lines through new duct banks into the building. The duct banks were then covered with well-compacted backfill. The condo ownership could finally stop the costly generator payments. Most importantly, the repair provided a permanent solution to prevent future power line issues. This quick, effective intervention minimized disruption for residents while ensuring long-term stability for the building's power supply.

Want more information on soil stabilization with polyurethane?

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has revolutionized soil stabilization and concrete leveling projects. This non-invasive technology provides crucial subsurface information without disturbing the ground. Consequently, contractors and engineers can make more informed decisions about soil stabilization and concrete leveling techniques. Furthermore, Ground Penetrating Radar for soil stabilization and concrete leveling is vastly improving project outcomes. Let's explore how this technology is making a difference.

Alchatek's Deep Look GPR System

The Deep Look GPR System employs advanced technology for superior results. Notably, it features multi-frequency antennas, covering a wider bandwidth than conventional systems requiring multiple antennas. As a result, this approach allows for both detailed near-surface imaging and deeper sub-surface imaging. Thus, the Deep Look GPR unit streamlines the data collection process.

Advantages of Ground Penetrating Radar

GPR offers several benefits for soil stabilization projects:

• Non-invasive assessment: First and foremost, GPR provides valuable data without disturbing the site.
• Comprehensive imaging: Additionally, it detects soil layers, voids, buried objects, and groundwater levels.
• Enhanced safety: Moreover, by identifying subsurface hazards, GPR improves worker safety. Consequently, these advantages enable more accurate soil assessment, leading to better application strategies.

GPR in Action: From Raw Data to Insights

Raw GPR data provides valuable insights into subsurface conditions. Specifically, high-resolution images reveal intricate details about soil composition and structure. For instance, GPR can detect individual shallow rebars and even the spacing between surface tiles. Undoubtedly, this level of detail is crucial for soil stabilization and concrete leveling projects, as it helps identify potential weak points or areas requiring special attention.

Ground Penetrating Radar for Soil Stabilization and Concrete Leveling

In conclusion, Ground Penetrating Radar has proven to be an invaluable tool for soil stabilization and concrete leveling projects. Its noninvasive nature allows for comprehensive site assessment without disturbance, while high-resolution imaging provides crucial insights into subsurface conditions. Furthermore, GPR enhances safety by identifying hidden hazards, reduces costs by minimizing exploratory drilling, and improves project outcomes through more informed decision-making. Overall, from initial site surveys to quality control and ongoing monitoring, GPR's versatility and accuracy make it a powerful tool for modern geotechnical work.

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Deep Lock® is an innovative process developed by Alchatek that utilizes high-quality structural polymers to address deep soil issues. This powerful, painless, and rapid solution stabilizes soil at all levels, ensuring long-lasting results with minimal disruption to the property. This article profiles the two main types of Deep Lock® soil stabilization work and the specific situations in which each type is most effective.

Jobs Requiring One Component Grouts (AP Fill 700 and AP Fill 720)

One-component grouts, such as AP Fill 700 and AP Fill 720, are used for permeation grouting. Permeation grouting involves injecting a low-viscosity grout to saturate loose soil and, upon curing, create a solid, stable mass. This type of Deep Lock® work is ideal for the following situations:

• Loose Soil: When dealing with loose, unstable soil, permeation grouting can effectively bind the soil particles together, creating a stronger foundation.
  
  
• Curtain Walls: One component grouts are often used to create subsurface barriers, or curtain walls, to prevent water infiltration or contain contaminants.
  
  
• Zero-Point Excavation: In cases where excavation is not feasible or desirable, permeation grouting can be used to stabilize the soil without disturbing the surface.

Jobs Requiring Two Component Structural Polymers (AP Lift 430, AP Lift 440, and AP Lift 475)

Two-component structural polymers, like AP Lift 430, AP Lift 440, and AP Lift 475, are used for compaction grouting. Compaction grouting involves injecting a highly viscous grout under pressure to compact and displace the surrounding soil. This type of Deep Lock® work is best suited for the following situations:

• Hard Clay Soils: Two-component structural polymers are effective in densifying and strengthening hard clay soils, which can be challenging to treat with other methods.
• Non-Sand/Silt Mix: When the soil composition is not primarily sand or silt, compaction grouting with two component polymers is often the most effective solution.
• Lifting Involved: If lifting of the structure or surface is desired, two component structural polymers are the ideal choice. These polymers expand after injection, providing controlled lifting force.

Two-component structural polymers offer more versatility than one-component grouts, as they can address a wider range of soil types and provide the added benefit of controlled lifting.

A Versatile Process for Soil Stabilization Work

The Deep Lock® process, with its range of high-quality structural polymers, provides a powerful and efficient solution for addressing deep soil issues. By understanding the specific characteristics of one-component grouts and two-component structural polymers, contractors can select the most appropriate approach for each unique situation. Whether dealing with loose soil, hard clay, or the need for controlled lifting, Deep Lock® has the tools and expertise to deliver rapid, long-lasting results with minimal disruption to the property. Alchatek's soil stabilization polymers are NSF-certified for contact with potable water. This means they meet the EPA's strict environmental standards as defined in the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for assistance today!

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

 

Essential 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

Discount

Register for both classes and get a 25% 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.

While Alchatek's Deep Lock® process is primarily used on deep soil stabilization jobs, there are specific situations in which deep soil stabilization may be needed to reinforce soil on slab lifting jobs. In cases where slabs are bearing heavy loads, have significantly loose soil underneath, or are located in areas where access is limited, incorporating the Deep Lock® process can help address the underlying soil stability issues. With the addition of the Deep Lock® soil stabilization process, contractors can achieve effective, minimally invasive slab lifting results while simultaneously improving the long-term stability of the foundation.

Slab Lifting for Heavy-Duty Environments

The Deep Lock® process is particularly well-suited for slabs that regularly bear heavy loads, such as:

• Factory floors
• Forklift ramps
• Loading areas
• Fire stations
• Airport runways
• Launchpads

In these high-traffic, heavy-duty environments, soil erosion, poor compaction, and biological decay can lead to slab settling and instability over time. Traditional methods of soil stabilization often fail to address deeper soil issues and can require extensive excavation, heavy equipment, and prolonged downtime.

Deep Lock®, on the other hand, gets to the root of the problem by stabilizing the soil at all levels beneath the slab. The process involves thorough site evaluation, saw cutting of joints if necessary, and the strategic injection of AP Lift structural polymers through small holes drilled in the slab. The expansive properties of the foam fill voids, compact loose soil, and lift the slab back to its original level position.

Soil Stabilization and Slab Lifting for Loose Soil Conditions

This process is also ideal for slabs with significantly loose soil underneath, where erosion or poor compaction has created unstable conditions. By permeating and densifying the soil with AP Lift polymers, contractors using this Deep Lock® process create a strong, stable substrate that can support the slab for decades to come.

Minimally Invasive Slab Lifting for Sensitive or Inaccessible Areas

Another key advantage of applying the Deep Lock® process is the ability to address slab issues in sensitive or inaccessible areas, such as in historical buildings where drilling from the inside is not possible. Because the process involves minimal drilling and can be performed entirely from the exterior, it offers a non-invasive solution for preserving and rehabilitating delicate structures.

Deep Soil Stabilization on Slab Lifting Jobs

Alchatek's Deep Lock® process provides a comprehensive solution for slab lifting and soil stabilization, with powerful results, painless procedures, and rapid return to service. For any slab that regularly bears heavy loads, has significantly loose soil underneath, or requires a minimally invasive approach, Deep Lock® offers a cutting-edge alternative to traditional repair methods. In addition, most Alchatek polymers are NSF-certified for contact with potable water. This approval verifies that the product complies with the strict environmental regulations established by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for assistance today!

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

Essential 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

Discount

Register for both classes and get a 25% 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.

Before 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!

In 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?