VSL
Construction Solutions, a leading South African post-tensioning (PT)
contractor, has introduced a new grout mix for its bonded PT systems used in
building and civil structures.
Paul
Heymans, general manager of VSL Construction Solutions, says that the new grout
mix is in line with the company’s focus on constantly innovating to improve the
performance of its PT technologies.
“Grout
is a vital component of any bonded PT system. It serves a dual purpose in that
it protects the PT strands against corrosion to ensure the durability of the PT
tendons and also serves as a bond between the tendon and the surrounding
concrete. The consistently high performance of the new grout mix will provide
us with increased confidence we need on all our construction sites,” Heymans
says.
The
new grout mix has already been approved by engineers and, as a result, been
introduced on all of the company’s projects.
PT
Grout is blended by Epoxerite Products, a leading construction chemicals
specialist, at its plant in Westonaria, Gauteng.
George
Weideman, managing member of Epoxerite, designed the new concept grout in
association with VSL and also
participated in the testing of the new grout mix to ensure it meets VSL Construction
Solutions’ very high performance standards.
The
results of testing revealed extremely good fluidity traits which, importantly,
did not deteriorate significantly within 30 minutes from initial mixing. This
provides an extended workability window for pumping without affecting
compressive strength after 24 hours.
The
compressive strength far exceeded the acceptance criteria set by COLTO and
EN447 within 24 hours in all related tests. This is believed to be as a result
of the high quality of VSL CEM1 grade 52,5N cement that is used as the primary
ingredient in the grout mix.
VSL
PT Grout is packaged in 25kg VSL pockets that are both safer and easier to
handle by the company’s skilled and experienced grouting teams on project
sites.
Notably,
the new grout also consists of Epoxerite’s PT-Flow additive.
”We undertook numerous consultations
with VSL and visited many of the company’s sites. The performance of the grout
needed to be predictive and consistent in all weather conditions. Epoxerite PT
Flow grout managed to also out perform all of the specifications, while being
more cost effective than those used previously by VSL. Further savings were
also recorded through declining stock shortages and reduced strain on
equipment,” Weideman says.
Heymans
lauds the Epoxerite team for its stellar effort and willingness to assist VSL
Construction Solutions develop and test the new grout mix.
This
leading construction chemicals specialist also supplies tailored solutions to
other prominent participants in the civil, construction and mining industries.
“Products are tailored to the
clients’ requirements and specifications, and then packaged under private
labels. VSL Construction Solutions is a
demanding client considering the complex nature of its projects. The consistently
high performance of its grout in these applications is testament to the high
level of service that we provide our clients in the construction industry,”
Weideman concludes.
More information from Epoxerite, Tel: +27 71 857
5300 / www.epoxerite.co.za
