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


Jesse Beaver
Head of Engineering Mechanics and Infrastructure
Additional Projects
Northeast
Logan International Airport, West Parking, Controlled Demolition of Post-tensioned Concrete Garage and Slab
A portion of the West Parking Garage fifth floor was cast on a snowy day. When the forms were stripped, contractor observed cracks and ice-filled voids in the slab. The owner and contractor needed to know if the 20,000 sq ft deck could be repaired or should be replaced.
Northeast
Development of Locomotive Crashworthy Components
Train collisions involving locomotives can result in serious damage and occupant injury due to the larger size and stiffness of the locomotive. SGH assisted TIAX, LLC and the Volpe Center with designing a crash energy management system for a locomotive along with material and component testing.