COMPOSITE STRENGTHENING

Concrete Repairs Limited (CRL) originally started researching the use of composites in 1994 when they commissioned Sheffield University to undertake some initial load testing trials for beam strengthening using Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plates (CFRP).The first commercial contract in the UK using CFRP plates was completed by CRL in July 1996 at Kings College Hospital, London. Since then the company has completed over 300 projects using composites both in the UK and overseas.

Research programmes in close co-operation with designers and material suppliers have enabled CRL to introduce a variety of composite strengthening techniques to suit the needs of the construction industry for both concrete and steel structures. These techniques include the use of poltruded plates, wet and dry lay systems, pre-stressed plates, ultra high modulus plates and near surface mounted.

CRL has been played a key role within the construction industry in developing and establishing the use of composites. It has actively contributed and led research programmes and attended the Concrete Society steering groups for the Concrete Technical report Nos. 55 and 57 which have established standards and guidance for the design, installation and management of composite systems.

CRL is able to provide a comprehensive design and installation package using the latest technologies to strengthen concrete, steel and cast iron structures. As an approved contractor for all the leading material suppliers it is able to select the most appropriate procedure and material to value engineer an effective composite system. The company was the first to use composites commercially for both reinforced concrete and cast iron structures and continues to develop new techniques to suit the growing demand for composites in construction.