Project Description: This filtration building is being completely renovated. Part of the scope included the reinforcement on the exterior brick walls. The design involved the installation of vertical strips of glass at the joist locations and at some intermediate locations between the joists. Also included is the installation of masonry helical ties in the 3 wythes of brick. After the installation of the GFRP, it is covered with a concrete product that will get painted to match the rest of the untouched walls.
Solution: Access was a major challenge as there are 8 filters and they could not be shutdown all at once. There will be 6-7 mobilizations on this project. Also the substrate proved to be a challenge as the brick was covered with plaster and the conditions were sight unseen. Pull tests were performed to understand the capacity of this old brick. The joints also were an issue as they were very deep and required filling.
Summary: Sand was broadcast onto the wet layup for future bonding of the concrete – a bonding agent was also employed. Phase 1 was in June of 2010 and phase 2 in December 2010. The balance of the work will be done in 2011 and 2012.
