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Alchatek Blog

Case Study - Road Stabilization and Corrugated Metal Pipe Repair

Posted by Steve Taylor on Jul 11, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Road Stabilization and Corrugated Metal Pipe Repair

Body - Road Stabilization and Corrugated Metal Pipe RepairAn Oakwood, Georgia corrugated metal pipe rehab job, involving the replacement of the end caps, resulted in soil migration through the new joints. This in turn led to depressions in the asphalt road above. The City of Oakwood public works department called in Atlanta-based geotech specialists LiftitRite to assess and repair the pipe and the soil.

Powerful Polymer

Alchatek's AP Fill 700 was an easy choice for this project. AP Fill 700 is a single-component, water-activated, hydrophobic polyurethane resin that is highly effective in cutting off high-flow underground leaks, filling voids, and stabilizing soil. It is also NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 approved for contact with drinking water.

Painless Procedure

The technicians began by stuffing the larger joints with resin-soaked Oakum to create an impermeable gasket. Then, injection ports were installed adjacent to the joint in a clock pattern. The crew injected AP Fill 700 until the joints were fully sealed and permeation of the surrounding soils was achieved.

Wanting to ensure a “belt and suspenders” repair was done, they opted to inject AP Fill 700 through the top of the road as well via injection probes. The probes were driven down to depths coinciding with the tops and sides of the culvert pipes. These injections ensured that all voids and shifted soils caused by the pipe infiltration were filled, permeated, and stabilized - thus preventing any future road depressions or dropouts.

Rapid Result

City of Oakwood officials were extremely pleased to see this issue remedied in just 2 days via an effective and affordable solution that involved minimal traffic disruption and zero excavation. 

Want more information on geotech products and equipment?

Download the Info-Packed Geotech Product Catalog!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil

A Trusted Polyurethane Soil Stabilization Resource for Engineers

Posted by Kreg Thornley on Jun 13, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - A Trusted Polyurethane Soil Stabilization Resource for Engineers

Body - A Trusted Polyurethane Soil Stabilization Resource for EngineersAs a geotechnical engineer, you understand the importance of stable supporting soil around structures. When the supporting soil becomes unstable, the stability of the structure is at risk. Common causes of unstable soil include erosion, poor compaction, freeze/thaw cycles, and decomposition of organic materials within the soil. Fortunately, soil can be stabilized with high-strength polyurethane. Whether you need a product recommendation for soil stabilization specs, or you're seeking accredited continuing education on this subject, Alchatek has you covered.

Product Recommendations for Soil Stabilization Specs

Experienced members of the Alchatek technical support team consult with engineers on a regular basis. When you call for assistance, you'll be connected to someone with extensive product knowledge and years of on-the-job experience out in the field. If you need a product recommendation for polyurethane soil stabilization specifications, call 404-618-0438 and ask for a geotechnical expert. 

Accredited Presentations

Alchatek offers one-hour CE/PDH accredited presentations on a variety of subjects, including geotechnical applications for polyurethane. These presentations are available online via videoconferencing or in person in a lunch-and-learn context. Geotechnical presentations are always given by an experienced expert who can field pretty much any question your team may have on the subject.

Click the button below and fill out the form to request an accredited presentation.

Request a Presentation

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Engineer Resources, Deep Lock

Polyurethane Concrete Repair Videos

Posted by Kreg Thornley on May 25, 2023 9:06:00 AM

Banner - Polyurethane Concrete Repair Videos

Body - Polyurethane Concrete Repair VideosAlchatek offers a series of short educational videos covering a variety of polyurethane concrete repair applications. Each video is described below, followed by a viewing link.

Slab Lifting with Polyurethane Foam

This live-action video depicts a typical residential driveway slab lifting job, including a simple overview of the causes of settled slabs, the alternatives to polyurethane slab lifting, and the polyurethane slab lifting process itself. The slab lifting sequence features added 3D animation to show the foam expansion process underground during the slab lifting process. Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Slab Lift Process Explained

This animated video explains the polyurethane slab lift process in detail, primarily in the context of commercial/industrial applications. Sunken concrete slabs can be lifted back into place with two-component polymer foam designed to work in wet or dry conditions. The expansion force of the concrete leveling foam coupled with the pressure of a specialized pump generate enough controlled force to lift virtually any structure back into position with 1/8” precision.  Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Soil Stabilization Process Explained

This animated video explains the most common infrastructure and concrete issues requiring polyurethane soil stabilization, as well as the application process itself. Unstable, eroded, or loose soil around infrastructure can result in settlement and damage to the structure. Voids can be filled, soil consolidated, and water migration halted by permeating the soil with one of the AP Soil series of polyurethane resins. Click here to watch the video.

The Deep Lock® Process Explained

This animated video explains deep soil stabilization in great detail. Alchatek offers a unique combination of high-quality structural polymers along with the equipment and training needed to address deep soil issues. Contractors trained in The Deep Lock® process can stabilize soil at all levels and accomplish this with minimal imposition to or downtime for the property owner. Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Leak Seal Process Explained

This animated video explains the most common infrastructure and concrete issues requiring polyurethane leak seal solutions, as well as the various application processes. Leaking concrete can be detrimental to safety and property values. Leaks in concrete structures can be permanently repaired with water-activated polyurethane and a few assorted leak seal accessories. Click here to watch the video.

Alchatek - A Supplier You Can Trust

This video provides a quick overview of Alchatek, an international leader in the manufacture and supply of chemical grouts and construction products for Geotechnical, Leak Seal, and Seawall Repair applications. Providing solutions from its headquarters in Tucker, Georgia, and its manufacturing facility in Reno, Nevada, Alchatek specializes in advanced construction technologies for sealing leaks, stabilizing soils, lifting concrete, and protecting infrastructure and seawall structures. Click here to watch the video.

Want more information on geotech and leak seal products and equipment?

Download the Info-Packed Geotech Product Catalog!

Download the Info-Packed Leak Seal Product Catalog!

Topics: All Posts, Lift Slabs, Seal Leaks, Stabilize Soil, Deep Lock, Crack Injection

Deep Lock® with Polyurethane

Posted by Clinton Holmes on May 18, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Deep Lock with Polyurethane

Body - Deep Lock with PolyurethaneDeep Lock® Overview

Solid soil is crucial for the long-term stability of concrete structures. Unfortunately, erosion often puts this stability at risk. When erosion occurs just underneath the structure, standard polyurethane soil stabilization methods are often the perfect solution.

Sometimes, however, erosion occurs deep within the soil. Alchatek's Deep Lock® polyurethane soil stabilization process is a unique and powerful solution for deep soil instability issues. This process involves the deep injection of high-quality structural polymers to address the problem with minimal heavy equipment and downtime. The Deep Lock® process addresses the root cause of deep soil problems. 

Deep Lock® Products

AP Deep Lift 420

AP Lift 430

AP Lift 440

AP Lift 475

Deep Look GPR

Dynamic Cone Penetrometer

Alchatek's industry-leading technical support team is thoroughly versed in the art and science of stabilizing soil. Call us today at 404-618-0438 for assistance with your next deep soil stabilization project.

Want more information on geotech products and equipment?

Download the Info-Packed Geotech Product Catalog!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil, Deep Lock

Alchatek Specialty Geotech Pumps

Posted by Kreg Thornley on May 9, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Alchatek Specialty Geotech Pumps

Body - Alchatek Specialty Geotech PumpsAlchatek offers world-class custom-built pump systems for both slab lifting and soil stabilization applications. If you're looking for a full-sized trailer rig system, click here to read more on that subject. In this blog post, we'll take a look at two propriety systems designed by the professionals at Alchatek. 

The PolyBadger: Compact Lifting System on Wheels

The wheel-mounted PolyBadger two-component pump system is an extremely valuable addition to any slab lifter's arsenal. It is perfect for new contractors looking to make an initial investment and for experienced contractors looking to add a portable option for those hard-to-reach locations. Small enough to fit in the back of a pickup truck, this simple system requires minimal equipment.

  • Lower Initial Investment
  • Less Equipment Needed
  • Easily Fitted to a Truck, Trailer, or Cart

The PolyShark: Skid-Mounted Soil Stabilization System

The skid-mounted PolyShark single-component pump system is essential for large-scale soil stabilization and void-fill projects. The PolyShark system includes a gas-powered high-pressure injection pump, two hose reels, and flow meters. The entire skid-mounted system can easily be fitted to a flatbed truck for efficient transport.

  • Ideal for Large-Scale Jobs
  • Complete System (Pump, Hose Reels, Flow Meters)
  • Easily Fitted to Flatbed Truck

Want more info on Alchatek geotech products and equipment?

Download the Info-Packed Geotech Product Catalog!

Topics: Equipment & Accessories, All Posts, Lift Slabs, Stabilize Soil, Fill Voids, Deep Lock

Soil Stabilization with Polyurethane

Posted by Clinton Holmes on Apr 18, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Soil Stabilization with Polyurethane

Body - Soil Stabilization with PolyurethaneUnstable soil can be a real nightmare. Existing structures, new construction projects, and excavation projects alike require strong supporting soil. Rain, freeze-thaw cycles, erosion, poor compaction, and excessive water saturation all pose a threat. The planet consists of 70% water and 30% land. Unstable soil is everywhere.

Contractors use Alchemy-Spetec structural polymers to strengthen soil supporting existing structures, provide a firm foundation for new construction, and prevent soil collapse during excavation projects. When cured, these polymers are stronger than crystalline bedrock. Alchemy-Spetec structural polymers are environmentally safe and certified to NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 standards for contact with drinking water.

Soil Stabilization Products

AP Soil 600

AP Fill 700

AP Fill 720

AP SoilGel 200

AP Microfine 10

Every member of Alchemy-Spetec's industry-leading technical support team is thoroughly versed in the art and science of stabilizing soil with polyurethane. Contact us today at 404-618-0438 for assistance on your next soil stabilization project.

Want more information on stabilizing soil with polyurethane?

Download an Info-Packed Soil Stabilization Brochure!

Topics: All Posts, Stabilize Soil

Last Chance to Register for 2023 Spring Training (Deadline April 15th)

Posted by Kreg Thornley on Apr 13, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner---Last-Chance-to-Register-for-2023-Spring-Training

Alchemy-Spetec HQ in Tucker, GA

Registration Deadline - April 15th

AS Geotech Training Spring 2023 - RegistrationMay 2nd - May 4th
$745 Registration Fee

$665 for each additional participant from
the same company.

Get ready for a thorough education in Slab Lifting, Soil Stabilization, the Deep Lock® process, Crack Injection, and Curtain Grouting. You’ll get hands-on training from a technical staff with decades of on-the-job experience.

Agenda Items

  • Geotech Product Line Overview
  • Geotech Applications & Case Studies
  • MixMaster Pro Slab Lifting Gun
  • Slab Lift Rig Demonstration
  • Pump Demos & Training
  • PolyShark® / Soil Stabilization
  • Deep Lock® 
  • Ground Penetrating Radar
  • PolyBadger® Mobile Slab Lifting System
  • Crack Injection
  • Curtain Grouting
  • Estimating Material for Jobs

Topics: Equipment & Accessories, All Posts, Lift Slabs, Stabilize Soil, Business Tips, Fill Voids, Deep Lock

The Clock Is Ticking! Secure Your Training Spot Now!

Posted by Kreg Thornley on Apr 6, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner---Secure-Your-Training-Spot-Now

Alchemy-Spetec HQ in Tucker, GA

AS Geotech Training Spring 2023 - RegistrationMay 2nd - May 4th
$745 Registration Fee

$665 for each additional participant from
the same company.

Get ready for a thorough education in Slab Lifting, Soil Stabilization, the Deep Lock® process, Crack Injection, and Curtain Grouting. You’ll get hands-on training from a technical staff with decades of on-the-job experience.

Agenda Items

  • Geotech Product Line Overview
  • Geotech Applications & Case Studies
  • MixMaster Pro Slab Lifting Gun
  • Slab Lift Rig Demonstration
  • Pump Demos & Training
  • PolyShark® / Soil Stabilization
  • Deep Lock® 
  • Ground Penetrating Radar
  • PolyBadger® Mobile Slab Lifting System
  • Crack Injection
  • Curtain Grouting
  • Estimating Material for Jobs

Topics: Equipment & Accessories, All Posts, Lift Slabs, Stabilize Soil, Business Tips, Fill Voids, Deep Lock

Secure Your Spot Now for Spring Geotech & Leak Seal Training

Posted by Kreg Thornley on Mar 30, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Secure Your Spot Now for 2023 Spring Training

Alchemy-Spetec HQ in Tucker, GA

AS Geotech Training Spring 2023 - RegistrationMay 2nd - May 4th
$745 Registration Fee

$665 for each additional participant from
the same company.

Get ready for a thorough education in Slab Lifting, Soil Stabilization, the Deep Lock® process, Crack Injection, and Curtain Grouting. You’ll get hands-on training from a technical staff with decades of on-the-job experience.

Agenda Items

  • Geotech Product Line Overview
  • Geotech Applications & Case Studies
  • MixMaster Pro Slab Lifting Gun
  • Slab Lift Rig Demonstration
  • Pump Demos & Training
  • PolyShark® / Soil Stabilization
  • Deep Lock® 
  • Ground Penetrating Radar
  • PolyBadger® Mobile Slab Lifting System
  • Crack Injection
  • Curtain Grouting
  • Estimating Material for Jobs

Topics: Equipment & Accessories, All Posts, Lift Slabs, Stabilize Soil, Business Tips, Fill Voids, Deep Lock

REMINDER: Geotech & Leak Seal Training (May 2nd - 4th, 2023)

Posted by Kreg Thornley on Mar 21, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Banner - Geotech & Leak Seal Training - Spring 2023-Reminder

Alchemy-Spetec HQ in Tucker, GA

AS Geotech Training Spring 2023 - RegistrationMay 2nd - May 4th
$745 Registration Fee

$665 for each additional participant from
the same company.

Get ready for a thorough education in Slab Lifting, Soil Stabilization, the Deep Lock® process, Crack Injection, and Curtain Grouting. You’ll get hands-on training from a technical staff with decades of on-the-job experience.

Agenda Items

  • Geotech Product Line Overview
  • Geotech Applications & Case Studies
  • MixMaster Pro Slab Lifting Gun
  • Slab Lift Rig Demonstration
  • Pump Demos & Training
  • PolyShark® / Soil Stabilization
  • Deep Lock® 
  • Ground Penetrating Radar
  • PolyBadger® Mobile Slab Lifting System
  • Crack Injection
  • Curtain Grouting
  • Estimating Material for Jobs

Topics: Equipment & Accessories, All Posts, Lift Slabs, Stabilize Soil, Business Tips, Fill Voids, Deep Lock