Polygon provides the correct environmental conditions to enable water tank repair

When a water tank has a capacity of more than 4,000 cubic litres, maintaining its structural integrity is a key priority. Fail to do so and there is the potential for significant water damage and costly repairs. When looking to maintain an underground water tank of this scale at a rural site, the structural engineering contractor engaged Polygon’s specialist help to ensure very specific environmental parameters were met.

Challenge

The objective of the project was to securely seal a water tank using the Sikadur-Combiflex system bandage from Sika UK, applied with Sikadur-31 DW Rapid, a two-component, solvent-free epoxy adhesive and repair mortar. This specialist product is formulated to meet the strict requirements for use in drinking water applications.

However, the adhesive has a critical curing requirement: it will only set properly if environmental conditions (specifically temperature and humidity) are maintained within a strict range for a continuous period of seven days.

Solution

Polygon was brought in to create and maintain the necessary ambient conditions so that the contractor could safely and successfully carry out the sealing works.

During the planning phase, Charles Stirling, Area Director at Polygon, performed detailed calculations to determine the scale and type of equipment required to control temperature and humidity for the duration of the project. The environmental control equipment would operate independently on generator power, which Polygon also supplied, along with power distribution gear and a fuel tank.

The biggest challenge wasn’t selecting the right equipment, it was getting it in place. The project site was in a remote, muddy field on the edge of a forest, with the water tank located underground and hard to access.

To overcome this, Polygon mounted the required equipment on trailers that could be towed into position using 4x4 vehicles. To prepare for this, a plastic road track was laid across the soft terrain, providing the traction needed to move and position the units safely, regardless of weather conditions.

Outcome

Thanks to thorough planning and smart logistics, Polygon successfully installed and commissioned all necessary equipment on time and within budget. The system maintained consistent ambient conditions 24/7 for the full seven-day curing period, enabling the contractors to complete the sealing work efficiently, safely, and on schedule.

This precise environmental control was vital in ensuring that the Sikadur-31 DW Rapid adhesive cured correctly, ultimately delivering a high-quality result for the client.