Finco launches structural strengthening system

A new Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Epoxy Strengthening System called “MBRACE” has been introduced to Sri Lanka by the Engineering Sales Directorate (ESD) of Finco Limited, the authorized distributor in Sri Lanka for BASF Construction Chemicals.

FRP, also called composite materials, are popularly used in structural strengthening for steel, wood, concrete, seaport and aerospace applications because of their cost-effectiveness and superior performance in situations where high strength, light weight, corrosion resistance, bomb blast or earthquake protection are needed.

“Commonly used in overseas construction grounds, this new material can be used for any type of structure, building or bridges and will be immensely helpful to take local construction industry to a new level,” Managing Director of Finco Limited Rohan Delgoda, said.

He said Finco ESD which introduced Concrete Admixtures, Waterproofing Systems, Gabions, Geotextiles, Industrial Flooring Systems and Grouting Systems to the Sri Lankan construction industry has again demonstrated its commitment to the industry with the introduction of “MBRACE” with the assistance of Society of Structural Engineers, Sri Lanka.

Finco in association with BASF Construction Chemicals, India conducted a technical presentation on strengthening of Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) structures with FRP techniques to the Society of Structural Engineers recently.

This presentation took place at the monthly “Question Time” of the Society of Structural Engineers, Sri Lanka at the Wimalasurendra Auditorium of the Institute of Engineers in Sri Lanka. Head of Marketing at BASF Construction Chemicals, India Upen Patel in his technical presentation said corrosion of reinforcement in concrete structures is a common problem facing Structural Engineers especially in marine atmospheres which affect the durability of concrete.

He said that various reasons like changes in loading conditions, loss of mechanical properties, corrosion of steel reinforcement and operational wear and tear weakens structures and this has traditionally been addressed by using different techniques like sectional enlargement, steel plate bonding and external post tensioning.

The FRP technique overcomes the various disadvantages in those conventional techniques. It is very useful in terms of increasing load carrying capacity whenever there is increased use, structural damage, seismic activity or inadequate design, Patel said.

“FRP will also be helpful in eliminating errors in construction such as missing reinforcements, incorrect reinforcing details and low concrete strength,” he said.

He said the FRP wrapping system is exceptional because of its fast process and readiness to increase the load capacities of the wrapped beam.

“The flexible installation schedule and almost zero addition of weight to the existing structures provide great advantages to the building alteration work. The other important aspects of this method are flexible installation schedules, fast application, money saving and noiselessness.”

This technology was successfully implemented in Colombo at the Queensway Shopping Complex at R A De Mel Mawatha, under Consultants Design Consortium Ltd. Finco Limited presented a case study on this project which included testing of materials at the University of Moratuwa.

“MBRACE” is manufactured by BASF, the world’s leading chemical company. BASF’s portfolio ranges from oil and gas to plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals.