| PROJECTS |
Two large-scale paving projects with completely different requirements were recently completed by CMA member, Technicrete, in the North West and Gauteng provinces respectively. In the f irst project in North West, Technicrete was able to assist Ikageng in its attempt to set aside stands for development below the 100-year flood line and take preventive measures to reduce the possibility of stormwater or flood damage to the area. Technicrete’s Armorflex proved to be the most effective and sustainable option to meet their requirements. “The project was initiated after it became apparent that some residential stands were set out w it h in t he 1:50 year f lood line. The formalisation of the trapezoidal channel to contain the 1:100 -year f lood meant these stands would be available for development. The construction of a lined channel could increase the capacity with a smaller crosssectional area,” says Dries Joubert, design engineer from FHP Consulting Engineers on the Ikageng project. Drainage channel Technicrete’s internationally licensed Armorflex 180 was recommended as the best option for the Ikageng project from the range of products available. The 180 is
Finding solutions
FOR RESIDENTIAL PAVING PROJECTS an open block suitable for stormwater and drainage channels, erosion control, roadside drains, strip roads and access roads. “We originally thought that a combined
“The channel had a natural alignment and the Armorflex improved the natural flow characteristics.” 30
PRECAST | ISSUE ONE | 2021
concrete and concrete-filled geo cell-type lined canal would serve the purpose, but due to poor soil conditions which required substantial earthworks, Armorflex was the preferred option and offered a reduced construction period – mainly because of the interlocking pattern that offered flexibility, should settlement occur. The channel had a natural alignment and the Armorf lex improved the natural flow characteristics of the channel during f lood conditions, hence its gently curved installation which eliminates the small radius bends that could have created overtopping,” explains Joubert. The project required the Armorflex 180 blocks to be tied to adjacent blocks with galvanised wire to form long mats. As and where required, these were also anchored into in-situ soil to further assist with stabilisation of the blocks and mat in general. Flexible fit The blocks provided a loose, but sophisticated interlocking design, allowing the surface to remain flexible to movement without the cracking and spalling issues that occur with in-situ cast concrete when exposed to regular stormwater or flooding incidents.
