Lake Heron

Lake Heron’s water level was so low that it was impossible for the city of Liverpool, Pennsylvania, to allow any recreational use. Upon further review, the repair crew realized that the lake’s overflow pipe located on the edge of the lake had deteriorated to the point where many flow points were located along its length. To fix the pipe, the city needed a corrosion barrier and a product that was structural in nature. The corrugated pipe measured 20 feet deep and 42 inches in diameter. This would make spray access easier, but the depth made it a nightmare for dealing with water. With the average annual temperature of 27.6°F during this time of the year, snow and freezing temperatures would also be troubleshooting factors.

Solution:

Two factors not looked on positively in the coatings world are water and weather, and this project involved plenty of both. Water was the primary problem, since the pipe was located in the lake. The water had to be blocked out and dried up before the project could continue. This was achieved by stopping the infiltration with a chemical grout pumped into the openings, then using a blower to dry the structure.

Weather entered the picture in the fact that the lake was completely covered with thick ice, except around the edges. Since it was January, most of the region’s lakes had frozen over. However, the ice would now have to be counted on to support the significant weight of the bridge technicians would need to build to reach the pipe. Upon testing, the crew was assured that the bridge would hold, so they proceeded to set up their safety equipment.

With water and weather issues out of the way, the crew began to prep the structure and get ready to spray. The pipe would require 300 ml. of Sprayroq Spraywall to give the structure the corrosion barrier and structural protection it needed.

Lake Heron Overflow Discharge Pipe

Situation:

Solution:

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