Latest JPP News

28 Nov

JPP News

CAPTIVE SHOT BLASTING TECHNIQUE

JPP were set an interesting challenge recently at a new container yard facility. The client had initially requested a power float finished surface that offered grip for reachstackers to safely stack containers up to 5 high in wet conditions.

Despite test panels being done and approved to confirm the surface finish required, the contractor overworked the surface and provided a much smoother surface than was acceptable. The challenge was to find a method that would quickly provide the required grip.

We ended up presenting two options for discussion.

The first was to provide parallel grooves across the slab by diamond saw cutting. This option would provide grip for the lifetime of the pavement but would take several weeks to implement. As the site was about to go operational this would have either significantly delayed opening or have required large areas of the site to be out of action. This method also would have been costly.

The second option was captive shot blasting. This involved a machine firing small metal shot at high speed to provide a textured surface. This operation is quick to do (3 days for this site) however, unlike diamond grooving, it has a limited lifespan of typically between 2 to 5 years before it will need to be redone. However, on balance it would likely be the cheaper option over the lifetime of the pavement and will need to be redone in local areas rather than the whole slab.

After the shot blasting was done the site was tested with reachstakers and HGVs again in wet conditions and the tests proved successful. Uniformity of the finish was measured using a pendulum test which is essentially a falling arm to measure the friction of the surface. The shot blasting also removed any weak surface laitance earlier than would have happened during normal operations which now allows for timely remedial works where required.

JPP were delighted and proud to be able to offer a cost-effective solution that allowed the site to become operational on time.