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Polypipe Civils, the UK’s leading manufacturing of drainage, sewer, cable protection and water management solutions has completed a challenging river diversion project at the Ffos-y-fran Land Reclamation Scheme in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, using its new large diameter pipe system, Ridgistorm-XL.
Working alongside the main contractor, Dawnus Construction, and project engineers Peter Brett Associates, Polypipe Civils has supplied and installed 72 metres of 1200mm diameter Ridgistorm-XL pipe along two separate runs. By using Ridgistorm-XL’s patented electro-fusion jointing process, Polypipe Civils’ skilled installation team was able to achieve quicker and safer installation in comparison with other large diameter pipe solutions. This method guarantees 100% seal tightness and eliminates leakage and joint failure within the pipeline.
Operated by Miller Argent, the Ffos-y-fran Land Reclamation project is the third and final phase of the East Merthyr Reclamation Scheme designed to reclaim 367 hectares of derelict land. 10,000,000 tonnes of coal will be mined from the area, using surface mining methods as part of the scheme, the proceeds from which will be used to pay for the reclamation and restoration process including dealing with three old waste tips.
The location of a natural watercourse is being diverted to allow access to an un-used area of the site for the temporary storage of overburden material. Ridgistorm-XL was specified for a section of this diversion due to its inherent strength and cost effectiveness versus traditional rigid materials. The Ridgistorm-XL system was installed in an enclosed concrete structure and then covered with wet-cast concrete. This then enables the construction of a temporary road for heavy plant and vehicles to travel across the watercourse, whilst allowing the re-routed water to flow through the pipeline.
Jonathan Lewis, Procurement Manager for Dawnus Construction feels that the benefits offered by Ridgistorm-XL are clear. “Once we started the installation work on-site it was clear to see how easily the product can be handled and installed. We’re very pleased with how quick the two pipe runs were installed ready for us to back-pour with wet concrete. Polypipe Civils have worked closely with us on this project and having their experience and knowledge on site during the installation stage was vital.”
Dr. Jason Shingleton, Marketing and Development for Polypipe Civils comments: “By controlling the design, engineering and manufacture of each Ridgistorm-XL pipe, we can offer an optimised solution for each customer. By analysing the site conditions and installation parameters, our design engineers can specify the exact stiffness class required that is neither under nor over specified. This project has been one of the most interesting schemes we’ve worked on, certainly in terms of its location and working with Dawnus Construction has provided a great example of the adaptability of the Ridgistorm-XL range and its suitability for specialist pipeline projects.
The inherent benefits of Ridgistorm-XL are clear on projects such as this, as the pipe can be installed and jointed quickly and safely to reduce the health and safety risks on-site, particular with the continuous movement of large, heavy plant vehicles. The innovative manufacturing process, rigorous testing, and strict quality control procedures ensures that Ridgistorm-XL offers exceptional product performance throughout the design life of the product.”
Works began on the Ffos-y-fran phase in June 2007 and has a planned completion date for the end of 2024. Upon completion, the reclaimed derelict land will be naturally landscaped and returned to Urban Common for use of the local community, as well as sustaining a range of wildlife and fauna.