Lough Mask Clarifier Tanks, Mayo

Project Overview

AQL have completed work to clarifier tanks in Lough Mask Water Treatment Plant. This plant plays a crucial role in supplying water to homes and business in the county of Mayo. Overtime, the structure had begun to exhibit signs of structural wear and leakages due to the nature of its use. As well as this, the water treatment process was to be changed, so some adjustments had to be made to the clarifiers. Adrian Queally Ltd (AQL) was engaged to carry out a comprehensive refurbishment of the clarifiers, addressing both external and internal deterioration while applying protective coatings to prolong the structure’s lifespan.

client objectives

-Ensure the longevity and structural integrity of the clarifiers. -Conduct essential concrete repairs to prevent further deterioration. -Apply protective coatings for erosion resistance and long-term performance. -Stop any leaks within the tanks -Ensure compliance with potable water safety standards for internal surfaces. -Ensure any changes are made to accommodate the new water treatment methods. -Return the floor of the clarifiers back to new condition

Scope of works

Surface Preparation Works – All internal surfaces were subjected to a high-pressure clean-down to remove contaminants, debris, and surface deterioration.Concrete Repairs- Soft, damaged and heavily eroded concrete was removed and/or repaired to return optimal cover to the rebar and allow for structural integrity.Crack Injection- All joints within the tank received resin injection to stop water ingress and egress that had been occurring.Surface Protective Coatings- All concrete elements that have been eroded or damaged were rectified and DWI approved coatings were applied to protect the concrete in the future.Floor Screed- The floor of the tanks received mechanical surface preparation, followed by a new floor screed to rectify erosion, blemishes and uneven surface.Pipe Penetrations- AQL installed new pipework, while creating a watertight seal around all pipes using specialist pipe penetration systems.

Challenges

Access- This structure was deemed a confined space, meaning all operatives must be trained and all the correct safety procedures in place. A concrete pump truck was also used to accommodate the awkward nature of the pour.Surface Contaminants & Deterioration: The presence of accumulated grime, biofilm, and pollutants on concrete surfaces necessitated a thorough high-pressure clean-down before coatings and repairs could be applied.Potable Water Safety Compliance: The interior of the tower required the application of a fully compliant, potable water-approved surface waterproofing system to meet regulatory standards.

Results

Structural Longevity: The repairs and protective coatings significantly enhanced the lifespan of the clarifiers, ensuring long-term durability.Erosion Resistance: The joint sealing, concrete repairs and coatings provided long-term resistance against harsh erosion, reducing maintenance requirements.Regulatory Compliance: The potable water-approved waterproofing system ensured the interior met the highest safety and hygiene standards for water storage.Improved Aesthetic & Functional Integrity: The reservoir now appears revitalised, with a clean, reinforced exterior that enhances its structural performance.Watertight- The resin crack injection has made the tanks watertight, allowing no water to leave or enter the tank through leaks. This makes the system more efficient, as no water is being lost or contaminated.

Conclusion

The successful completion of Lough Mask WTP Clarifiers refurbishment project highlights AQL’s expertise in structural water infrastructure repairs. Through meticulous planning, industry-leading materials, and specialist application techniques, AQL delivered a high-quality, long-lasting solution that ensures the water reservoir remains operational and compliant for years to come.

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