Safely Stripping Uranium Vessel Liners

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Safely Stripping Uranium Vessel Liners

Walco Industries Ltd. successfully executed the task of safely removing a uranium vessel liner. Preferring 3-D tooling over robotics due to cost considerations, they strategically planned tool deployment and limited exposure time to 15 minutes per phase for safety compliance. The accumulation of removed liner raised radiation risks, necessitating daily debris clearance to extend work duration. Workers rigorously followed PPE protocols, while collaboration with the customer enabled 95% liner removal, allowing extended work hours. Through meticulous project management and unwavering commitment to safety protocols, the project achieved its objectives.

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Forensic Investigation of Structural Failure: Using Surgical Hydrodemolition Techniques for Sample Collection

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Forensic Investigation of Structural Failure: Using Surgical Hydrodemolition Techniques for Sample Collection

Join us to learn more about the forensic investigation of a structural failure, where surgical hydrodemolition techniques were expertly employed for precise sample collection. By utilizing hand-operated lances with pressurized water jets at 40,000 psi, the investigation revealed unparalleled efficiency and accuracy. With safety as a top priority, the team donned cutting-edge TST suits, offering exceptional protection during high-pressure operations. Learn how this innovative approach ensured the preservation of concrete and rebar integrity while providing critical insights for clients.

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Concrete Complications

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Concrete Complications

Walco Industries Ltd collaborated on the Great Hall Renewal Project at The University of British Columbia, a renowned institution known for its global impact. The project's goal is to enhance the seismic resiliency of the space while preserving the original appearance and architectural design by Arthur Erickson. Walco Industries Ltd was entrusted with the task of safely removing grout from the pillar structure to facilitate the insertion of structural tension support. The hydrodemolition method fed a high-pressure water jetting line through the openings on each end. The grout was encased in metal, allowing us not to damage the surrounding concrete. Jackhammering or other mechanical methods would cause a vibration, and with this vibration, the potential to cause cracking or microfractures around the metal encasing. 

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WorkSafe BC Hydrodemolition Piece

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WorkSafe BC Hydrodemolition Piece

Walco Industries Ltd. stepped into the world of hydrodemolition in 2017. Hydrodemolition is a concrete removal technique that uses high-pressure water to remove damaged or deteriorating concrete from a surface. It is highly precise, making it ideal for applications where the structural integrity of the remaining concrete needs to be maintained. The water jet is adjustable and can be used to selectively remove damaged areas while preserving sound concrete. Hydrodemolition is becoming increasingly popular for a range of applications including bridge deck repair, piles, dam spillways and columns. Read more here!

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Using Lessons Learned From Penstock Cleaning To Save Time, Money

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Using Lessons Learned From Penstock Cleaning To Save Time, Money

Cleaning the inside of penstocks that supply water to hydroelectric powerhouses can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. This case study illustrates how it was possible to cut the time required to perform this work by more than 80% and reduce man-hours by about 75%. 

The work to be discussed took place at the Bridge River hydroelectric complex in British Columbia, Canada. Bridge River is a mid-sized stream about 120 km long, flowing southeast from the Coastal Mountains and joining the Fraser River near Lillooet. The 492 MW Bridge River hydroelectric complex consists of three dams and stores water for four generating stations. The system uses Bridge River water three times in succession to supply 6% to 8%of British Columbia’s electrical supply.

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