RADIUS FORM At World of Concrete 2007 this month in Las Vegas, the company will introduce Xtra-Flex forms designed for flexibility in order to form tight
RADIUS FORM
At World of Concrete 2007 this month in Las Vegas, the company will introduce Xtra-Flex forms designed for flexibility in order to form tight radii, returns, and circles. A 10-ft. length (unlapped) forms a 38-in.-diameter circle (19-in. radius) and can be bent to achieve a radius as small as six inches. Product developers note that Xtra-Flex offers several advantages for walk, patio, curb, and decorative flatwork jobs: 1) high density polyethylene form material allows over 100 reuses, as it does not absorb water and will not rot or splinter; 2) ease of setting and stripping due to predrilling of holes on 1-ft. centers for positioning bolt-on steel stake pockets as required for various subgrade conditions; 3) quick grade elevation adjustment tied to stake pocket locking knob, permitting fast no tool vertical adjustment of the form to a stringline; and, 4) positive end connection achieved through splice-type steel design to provide a tight joint between forms. Metal Forms Corp.
www.metalforms.com
LIGHT WEIGHT TROWEL
A lighter-weight 36-in. model is the company’s latest addition to its Smooth Operator Power Trowel line. Weighing 23 lb. less than the standard 36-in. CF364, Model CF36L especially suits basement work, as it is easier to carry down stairs, and jobs where concrete hasn’t cured sufficiently to support a heavier trowel. In addition to a 36-in. working width, the CF36L features the DynaClutch safety system and optional ProPitch blade leveling system for fine-tuned blade adjustment. It is powered by either a 5.5- or a 8-hp Honda engine. Stone Construction Equipment
www.stone-equip.com
DECORATIVE FLOORING
GL Epoxy Stone is a proprietary resurfacing system for textured, moisture resistant interior and exterior flooring. Other key benefits of the systems’ 60-plus designer stone selection include UV resistance; advanced durability (over 4-6K psi in tensile strength); higher gloss; stain resistance (oil, grease, gasoline and dirt require only hose washing); weather resistance (large temperature variations and freeze-thaw cycles do not affect its structural integrity); and, porosity that allows water to drain freely. GoldenLook International
www.goldenlook.com
EXPANSION ANCHOR
Designed to fulfill 2003 International Building Code (IBC) requirements, the new medium-duty KB-TZ is geared for tension zone, seismic, and concrete-over-metal deck applications. Its wedge design, reduced requirements for edge distance and anchor spacing, and availability in carbon and Type 304 stainless steel make the KB-TZ suited to a range of seismic and cracked concrete conditions. The anchor has been qualified in accordance with ACI 355.2 and AC193 for use in seismic design environments; and, the bolt steel satisfies ductility requirements of ACI 318-02 Section D.1. The KB-TZ is available in a variety of anchor lengths for each diameter.
The anchor incorporates what product engineers note are design features that ease installation, including a raised dog point impact section to help prevent thread damage during placement and a rounded end for easy insertion. The anchor nominal diameter is matched to the drill bit size, simplifying selection of the proper drill bit. To facilitate quality control and inspection after installation, the KB-TZ anchor also features product and length identification codes. Hilti Inc.
www.us.hilti.com or
www.ca.hilti.com (for Canada)
SLAB STAINS, TEXTURE MATS
Chemically reactive with the minerals in cured concrete surfaces, Chrome-Etch Acid Stains produce marbled, uneven color effects that do not fade, chip or peel from the concrete surface. The liquid stains Û available in 12 colors Û create natural, earth-tone shades that simulate the appearance of stone or masonry. Suitable for interior floors, they are enhanced by applying clear sealer and wax for greater wear resistance and rich color.
Company has also announced the StampMaster line of concrete texture mats, with over 100 new patterns offering eight slate styles in tile, running bond, and herringbone configurations. Suitable for commercial projects, the new patterns feature subtle slate texture and shallow grout joints to minimize trip hazards. Specialty Concrete Products
www.scpusa.com
FIBER COLUMN FORMS
KlimatePRO maintains the advantages of the established Kolumn Form product used for concrete columns, piers, pilings and footings, the manufacturer notes Û cost-effective, lightweight, easy to place and strip, while also offering rain resistant properties. Proprietary paper and glue, developed by the company’s paper mills and adhesive facilities, enable the product to stand up to inclement weather. Caraustar
www.caraustar.com
ONE-HANDED LATCH
Replacing PH-30 and PH-T-60-AOL-8 models, the PH-30RP41 rigid-mount pintle hook is reportedly designed for over-the-road and off-road towing. It comes equipped with the company’s one-handed FastLatch, which is equipped with an automatic secondary lock, eliminating the need for chains or cotter pins. The PH-30RP41 also features stronger steel for improved durability, plus company’s NoLube technology. The PH-30RP41 is 20 percent lighter than previous models. It is designed for medium-duty service, accommodating a 6,000-lb. maximum vertical load and 30,000-lb. gross trailer weight. Holland Group, Inc.
www.thehollandgroupinc.com
FOUNDATION REPAIR
Crack injection repair method involves sealing with resin from front to back. In contrast to procedures requiring high-pressure injection Û typically at 200-10,000 psi Û plus drilling holes into the concrete, low-pressure injection applied at 20-40 psi is said by product developers to be an economical and efficient solution for most situations. Using a patented Jake gun to dispense both epoxies and urethanes, the method entails no risk of compromising concrete integrity and requires little maintenance, product developers contend.
Epoxies are available in a variety of viscosities to accommodate cracks of different widths and provide structural strength. Urethanes are effective in stopping water infiltration, even against actively flowing water, but may be less effective if structural reinforcement is required. Emecole
www.emecole.com
WHEEL WASH
The Cyclonator enables sites to prevent trucks and heavy equipment from tracking dust, mud, rocks and debris onto public streets. Installed near the exit, the portable system reduces street cleaning costs, the manufacturer contends, and complaints from neighboring residents and businesses.
As soon as a vehicle is driven onto the device, an electronic eye triggers two 150-gal.-per-min. pumps to flush mud and rocks off the tires and undercarriage. Robust, galvanized, painted steel construction handles up to 60 vehicles per hour. Sludge and rocks washed off the tires drain into a center trough where a conveyor removes the debris. Wash water is recycled to nearby retaining ponds or a tank. Riveer Environmental
www.riveer.com
FASTENING TOOL
The R360 suits heavy-duty fastening to masonry and concrete, and joins the company’s line of .22 caliber tools. Providing precision with comfort, product engineers contend, are a 360-degree rotating handle and a cushioned pistol grip to help absorb recoil. Additionally, the tool incorporates a protective knuckle guard and trigger lock mechanism for greater safety. Constructed of steel and engineered for quick disassembly for easy cleaning, the manufacturer notes, the R360 is a single shot, trigger-actuated tool that uses .22 caliber loads and handles washered as well as non-washered power fasteners from _-in. to three inches long. Remington Power Tools
FUEL MANAGEMENT
New wireless communication device provides an alternative to conduit for transferring data between a System2, K800 or ART fuel island terminal and fuel site controller. Offering a solution for hubs not easily connected by conduit or anywhere conduit installation is cost prohibitive, the wireless option suits applications involving sites obstructed by water or roads, property with dig restrictions, or reinforced concrete-covered locales, such as trucking companies, airports, and military operations. Because data is encrypted during transmission, fueling transactions are always secure, product developers note. OPW Fuel Management Systems
www.opwfms.com
SELF-SEALING TIRE
Expanding its self-sealing commercial tire technology to include more mixed-service tires for vehicles that require high off-road traction, the manufacturer will offer DuraSeal technology in Unisteel G177 severe-service drive tires. The G177’s aggressive tread design reportedly provides superior off-road traction for severe-service applications that use tires on the drive axle to give equipment added grip.
The tire also features high-tear strength tread compound to help resist rubber chipping and chunking. An enhanced casing design improves strength, puncture-resistance, and retreadability, company representatives note. Adding DuraSeal technology to the tire optimizes its value and helps fleets reduce their operating costs, they add, by helping seal tread-area punctures up to 14-in. diameter with a gel-like, solvent-free compound built into the tire’s inner liner. Previously available only in Unisteel G287 MSA and G288 MSA mixed-service tires, the self-sealant technology allows tires to remain in service: they can be retreaded and retain sealing effectiveness, product developers affirm. The G177 mixed-service tire featuring DuraSeal technology is available in sizes 11R22.5 H, 11R24.5 H, 12R22.5 H, and 12R24.5 H. Goodyear Tire
www.goodyear.com/truck
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR CONCRETE TRUCKS
Universal Flow Monitors’ new 2FR water management system is designed to record flows of water added to a load to maintain quality, while also providing an alarm in the event of post-pour washout. Ready mixed operators can use 2FR units with flow alarms in their satellite navigation system to notify dispatchers immediately when trucks are ready for redeployment.
In contrast to a typical two- flowmeter configuration, the 2FR offers what Universal officials note is the efficiency of one CoolPoint vortex-shedding device for both water-add and washout functions. The CoolPointflowmeter’s accuracy is +/-1 percent of actual flow, thereby meeting Federal Highway Administration FP-03 552.05 requirements. It has one set point alarm for washout and a pulse outflow signal for water-add flow monitoring.
CoolPoint is a non-mechanical meter that has no moving parts to stick or coat, and is not susceptible to problems such as acid wash, meter hang-up caused by entrained dirt and compressed air over-ranging. The 2FR water system is equipped with a solenoid valve whose fully on or fully off feature avoids the fault of a partially opened manual valve that can keep flow below a rate accommodated by the flowmeter. The truck driver pushes an in-cab button to actuate the solenoid valve to full flow position and allow flow into the drum.
The system can accommodate flows from 1.8 to 50 gallons/minute. Its washout switch actuates at 2 GPM flow when the chute is being washed. Total amount of water added is shown in a cab LCD display in a self-contained box that also holds the solenoid valve actuation button. The system includes cabling for power to truck battery, valves and the in-cab display.
Û Universal Flow Monitors, Hazel Park, Mich.; 248/542-9635; www.flowmeters.com.
DISPATCH PLATFORM DRAWS ON WEB 2.0
Sysdyne Corp., a Connecticut-based provider of batching automation systems for concrete and asphalt production, is applying the computer industry’s software-as-service concept to dispatch. Its Web-based program is an out-of-box turnkey solution for central dispatch, whereby users log on to ConcreteGo.com to enter orders; deploy mixer trucks; send tickets to the batching computers; and, transfer tickets to accounting.
The program has changed the model from buying software to renting software over the Web, enabling service providers to assume the responsibility of hosting, maintaining and upgrading the software and hardware. With no major hardware procurement or complex set-up requirements, Sysdyne officials contend, the technology especially suits smaller operators who previously might not have been able to make major software investments.
ConcreteGo.com provides management real time data for prompt response to changes in schedules or operating plans. Managers can access data from the site through a PC or handheld device set on dozens of variables: Everything from inventory to delivery schedules to daily production. Since it’s a one-to-many hosting model and all different applications have been integrated to the hosting service, the system reportedly economizes and streamlines the upgrade process. That function, Sysdyne notes, is particularly important for concrete producers who have not been able to upgrade their mapping service. Web-based dispatching also makes data and information transfer among its users much easier. Salesman enter their orders and observe fulfillment.
Û www.sysdynecorp.com
WATER-BASED STAINS IMPART NATURAL LOOK
A line of nonhazardous, water-based stains, Tint» D’Acqua allows professional or amateur users to create coloring effects on finished concrete that simulate the natural shadings and aged appearances of stone and masonry. The line contains no hydrochloric acid and includes 28 standard colors that may be blended to create additional shades. Tinte D’Aqua can be applied over new and existing concrete floors, patios, driveways, smooth troweled or textured concrete, cement-based overlayments, vertical or horizontal concrete, masonry surfaces, artificial rock displays, water features, and themed finishes.
The stains reportedly have a particle size significantly smaller than that of earlier formulations. Consequently, the manufacturer asserts, they offer improved color control and a wider range of coloring possibilities. In addition, the stains penetrate the concrete, providing a long-lasting wear surface. Tinte D’Aqua offers UV protection for greater color stability, even under severe exposure and high-traffic conditions.
Û Legacy Decorative Concrete Systems; www.legacycolor.com
EPOXY FLOOR COATINGS, STAINS ADD GLAMOUR
Taking advantage of a facility’s largest single surface Û the floor Û by using epoxy stains allows owners to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, Durall Industrial Flooring reports. A recent flooring redevelopment project was undertaken to enhance a coffee house atmosphere for a Minneapolis-based photographer.
Before work began, Durall created a custom kit of materials tailored for the project. The first step involved using an adhesive remover to eliminate glue that remained from carpeting and tile formerly covering the warehouse-type facility floor. As a concrete slab is highly porous, project participants explain, even floors that look almost free of glue will yield significant quantities of adhesive under the leaching action of chemical removers. A high-alkaline cleaner was then applied using a rotary scrubber with a stiff nilo grit brush. The high-alkaline degreaser brings the pH of the floor up to nearly 12 as it removes leftover adhesive and contaminants. A follow-up scrubbing with Dura Klean (an acidic cleaner with water softeners, detergents, and rinse agents) shocked the floor with a pH of 3.5, thereby forcing contaminants and vulnerable cement particles to release from the slab.
Black and red stains shot downward with weed sprayers provided alternating color for a new studio-floor look. Before staining began, masking tape was used to simulate a grid pattern, barring stain from mock grout lines. The pattern was laid diagonally across the floor to heighten dimension and interest. Two people, two sprayers, two colors Û but just one artist Û as the red was laid with the artist’s eye and the helper followed, filling in unsprayed areas with black. Once dry, the tape was removed and two top coats of clear, flat catalyst epoxy were applied, leaving a soft, nonglare, easy-to-clean surface that softly dissipates light. As planned, project principals note, the resulting floor design harmonizes with the wood, soft leather, and natural greenery of an attractive, comfortable and easily maintained studio.
Û www.concrete-floor-coatings.com
FOUNDATION DRAINAGE BOARD
Product developers note that Shockwave, a crush-resistant drainage board in 3- _ 4-ft. sheets of _-, 1- or 2-in. thickness, prevents damage to foundation walls that can occur during backfill operations. Acting as a shock absorber to protect walls, waterproofing system features a rubber-like texture due to closed-cell, cross-linked polyethylene foam construction that absorbs pressure and bounces back to its original configuration when compressed.
Shockwave reduces the load factor on below-grade walls, the manufacturer notes. Specially engineered for flexibility, the barrier moves with the soil as it expands and contracts during freeze-thaw cycles. Water is channeled away from the foundation to protect the home from moisture-related problems. Additionally, a drainage silt backing cloth helps prevent small pebbles and dirt from infiltrating the board and clogging drainage channels. Mar-flex Waterproofing and Basement Products
www.mar-flex.com
ADMIXTURES ROUND-UP
AXIM CONCRETE TECHNOLOGIES
Catexol LN was selected to mitigate alkali-silica reaction (ASR) on the $48 million runway project at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. ASR is a significant cause for premature deterioration of concrete highways, runways, parking lots and bridges in certain areas. ASR takes place between the alkali produced from the hydration of portland cement and specific siliceous rocks or minerals in the aggregates utilized in concrete production. This firm provides a range of lithium-based admixtures and corrosion inhibitors that mitigates the effects of ASR and prevents the premature deterioration of concrete structures. Catexol LN is said to improve the durability of concrete, increase the life of structures and permit the use of locally available aggregates, which can reduce costs. It is formulated for structures designed for long-service life and applications that are difficult to repair, such as airport runways.
www.aximconcrete.com
FRITZ-PAK CORP.
This company recently added to its line of admixtures a high strength gypsum retarder, which slows the set time of gypsum and gypsum-containing materials. Fritz-Pak will act as exclusive distributor of Retardan P, from the German firm Tricosal GmbH & Co. in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The retarder is a high-purity, organic synthetic poly-oxy-methylene amino acid, which does not contain carriers or extenders. Effective over a range of pH, the product does not contain any materials that interfere with portland cement or calcium aluminate cements.
www.fritzpak.com
SIKA CORP.
Company recently introduced a multipurpose admixture called Sikament 686, which can be used in cast-in-place as well as precast applications. This admixture establishes the category of mutlidosage water reducers, providing increased dispersion of water reduction through the entire dosage range. Sikament 686 can be used as a normal water reducer at its lowest recommended dosage, a mid-range water reducer, or as a high-range water reducer at its highest recommended dosage. Increased workability is provided with no delay in normal set time.
www.sikaconstruction.com
GRT ADMIXTURES
Polychem SPC, a multi-component, polycarboxylate-based superplasticizer is designed to provide concrete producers an alternative type of water reducer. Polychem enables producers to achieve higher early and ultimate strengths with an SCC spread, according to the manufacturer. SPC is designed to be air-neutral in both non-air and air-entrained mixes. The consistent flow characteristics of SCC produced with SPC also has made this product effective in SCC produced for ready mixed and precast/prestress applications.
www.grtinc.com
READY MIX USA TACKLES ATLANTA TUNNEL
Atlanta and surrounding cities have had a sharp increase in population, prompting large-scale public works jobs. Principal projects have included the Nancy Creek Tunnel, completed in mid-2005 and West Area CSO Storage Tunnel and Pumping Station, now in its early phase. The jobs call for nearly 250,000 yd. of concrete, major quantities of which require lengthy transfer from batch plant to lining or shaft formwork. Placement conditions and forming schedules have challenged project engineers and contractors to devise mix designs that will meet extended slump retention and moderate early strength development targets.
Located in Fulton County, the eight-mile Nancy tunnel transports wastewater across the north side of Altanta. The project consumed 140,000 yd. of concrete over an 18-month window, yielding an 18-in. lining along a 20-ft. diameter main tunnel; three 200-ft.-deep downshafts (required for personnel and equipment); and, eight access structures.
Principals on the job were Nancy Creek Contractors, a joint venture of Obayashi Construction, Los Angeles, and CJB Inc. in Atlanta, and Ready Mix USA. Initial concrete specs for much of the structures called for 1,000-psi strength development at 12 hours; a 0.38 water-cementitious materials ratio; 6- to 8-in. slump, retained for a minimum of one hour. The final mix design contained Lehigh Leeds Type I/II cement and Boral Class F Fly-ash at a 20 percent maximum replacement ratio. Retention of 8-in. slump for two hours allowed ample delivery time.
In typical placing sequences, the concrete had an initial travel time from the batch plant to the jobsite of 30 minutes; is was then loaded into rail cars by dropping through 180-ft. downshafts, taking 15 minutes; transported to the pump, requiring up to 45 minutes; and, placed into the form within the remaining 30 minutes.
Project engineers turned to a new generation high range water reducer, the Chryso Fluid Optima 203, to impart slump retention. The agent was dosed at .55 percent of total cementitious material, providing: 1,300-psi compressive strength at 12 hours; slump retention of 8.5 in. at 30 minutes and 8 in. at two hours. The formulation delivered a homogenous mix eliminating the risk of clogging the pumping equipment.
Û www.chryso.com