Wethersfield, CT
StormTech, Inc., Stormwater Chambers
Scope/Solutions
StormTech manufactures underground molded polypropylene chambers for stormwater retention systems. With no design standards available for these structures, StormTech asked SGH to assess the structural performance of the chambers and develop design procedures.
Polypropylene is a thermoplastic with excellent durability, but with time-dependent strength and stiffness properties. Highlights of our evaluation and analyses of the polypropylene chambers include the following:
- Adapted AASHTO design procedures for thermoplastic pipe to the evaluate of the chambers
- Conducted computer simulations under earth and live loading conditions
- Monitored full-scale field tests to evaluate performance under live loads and earth loads in excess of those anticipated during service
Based on our work for this project, SGH authored ASTM F2418 standardizing design criteria and laboratory test methods.
Project Summary
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation
Services
Advanced Analysis | Applied Science & Research
Markets
Infrastructure & Transportation
Client(s)
Stormtech, Division of Ads, Inc.
Specialized Capabilities
Buried Infrastructure | Physical Testing
Key team members
Phillip Sharff
Head of Engineering Mechanics and Infrastructure
Jesse Beaver
Engineering Mechanics and Infrastructure Division Head, Boston
Additional Projects
Northeast
Tuskegee Airmen (formerly 100th Street) Bus Depot
The contractor attempted to repair the 280,000 sq ft of elevated decks and ramps, but subsequent cracking, including some through the previous repairs, raised concern about the service life of the depot. SGH investigated the cause of cracking in the concrete slabs.
Northeast
Suspended Concrete Ceiling Removal over Massachusetts Turnpike
As the ceiling reached the end of its useful life, SGH designed a demolition plan and observed its removal over a period of several months.