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Extension of WRc approved certificate

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:30:00 -0500

Extension of WRc approved certificate - See Here

New pipe technology helps industrial area regain its green credentials

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:30:00 -0500

New pipe technology helps industrial area regain its green credentials

An innovative approach to an old problem has helped an industrial area in West Lothian to clean up its act.

Surface water from the Brucefield Industry Park close to Bellsquarry Village in Livingston has been polluting the Dedridge Burn with oils and silts over a number of years.

A series of complaints from local people about diesel contamination in particular, led West Lothian Council to bring together a partnership to help combat the problem, part of an initiative under the River Almond Catchment Management Plan, which will help meet the requirements of the European Water Framework Directive.

Working together with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Agricultural College and landowners, Woodland Trust Scotland, proposals were developed for an extensive system of ponds and reedbeds to intercept the silts, attenuate flows downstream and generally improve the quality of the water.

Local people, however, were unconvinced of the merits of this first design.

They were particularly concerned at the prospect of diesel oil contaminating the new ponds, spoiling their appearance and leaving an unpleasant odour.

West Lothian Council turned to a solution developed by Oil Remediation Technology based in Selkirk in partnership with CLARCC at the University of Edinburgh and Welsh water solutions provider, Asset International Ltd.

The revolutionary drainage system known as an Advance Treatment Station or ATS consists of a series of Weholite High Density Polyethelene (HDPE) chambers to intercept silts and larger solids and heavy metals.

Filtration in the second chamber uses ‘Mycelx’ technology to removes hydrocarbons and pesticides before the runoff issues into the open watercourse.

Not only did the ATS provide a cost-effective solution but the installation could be completed within a tight time-scale and a limited space according to Graeme Hedger, Senior Professional Officer with West Lothian Council.

He said: “We wanted to remove oils and suspended solids from surface water runoff by means of an end-of-line system. By adopting the ATS technology using the Weholite system, we were able to prevent the oil from visibly degrading above ground structures. We can now develop a scaled-down sustainable drainage scheme downstream, which will include watercourse restoration and wetland to polish the water and further attenuate flows whilst enhancing the amenity and habitat value of the village.”

Advantages claimed for the ATS system include:
• The use of Mycelx technology to remove 99.9% of oils through a single pass
• The removal of other known contaminants, silts, heavy metals and pesticides which can pollute rivers
• The ATS has a small footprint and is contained underground - this avoided the need to occupy a large amount of ground to develop a wetland system
• The ATS uses the highly flexible, durable and abrasion-resistant Weholite pipe system manufactured by Asset International Ltd.
• The ATS is coupled with underground attenuation tanks, again supplied by Asset International.
• Weight – Weholite pipes are far lighter than concrete alternatives, which make for ease of transportation and handling on site.
• Sustainable – Weholite pipes have a design life of over 120 years.
• Environmentally friendly – fewer lorry loads are required for delivery and lighter plant can be employed for handling.
• Low maintenance requirements involving the occasional removal of solids and the replacement of the ‘Mycelx’ and associated filter media.

Commenting on the project, Iain Robinson from Oil Remediation Technology said: “The ATS provides a practical solution to a difficult problem in a small space. It can be a stand-alone solution but is entirely compatible with other parts of a train of treatment. It will be an additional tool to help industry, developers, water companies and landowners to demonstrate a real commitment to the protection of the environment.”

CSO Press Release

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:30:00 -0500

Innovation an ‘Asset’ in Welsh Water Alliance Project

A leading water management solutions provider was recently selected as a supply chain partner in the Dwr Cymru Welsh Water’s £1.2billion investment Asset Management Programme 4 (AMP 4).

Part of Dwr Cymru Welsh Water’s nationwide five-year scheme to improve and maintain water infrastructure (until 2010), the £630k project marked the first time Newport-based Asset International has worked alongside the two strategic partners of the Dwr Cymru Welsh Water South-East Wales Alliance.

The partners - project management company AMEC, and design consultants Arup - utilised Asset’s bespoke manufactured solution, LiteSpeed, in a residential project in Ebbw Vale, as part of improvements to the wastewater system.

Fabricated primarily out of Asset’s Weholite, High Density Polyethelyne (HDPE) pipe system fitted with a Hydro International Static Screen, the LiteSpeed product replaced two existing Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) chambers, which were identified for improvement to meet current environmental legislation.

Designed by Arup, the innovative Weholite product was deemed the best option: “The strength of the Weholite pipe, coupled with the natural flexibility of its HDPE composition, is a real benefit in terms of design and installation.” Explained Nathan Walding, a recently employed civil engineering graduate from Cardiff University.

Mr Walding, who has specialised in Water Engineering since graduation, commented on the benefits of using the innovative product and continued: “Asset offered the complete solution – which incorporated a range of diameter pipe sizes, as well as a diverse range of sewer screens. This is something many pipe system manufacturers are simply not able to offer.”

The modular pipe was also endorsed by AMEC, which favoured the product in this particular project, as the chambers could be manufactured off-site and installed quickly. This subsequently reduced the environmental impact on the surrounding community, whilst also minimising the health and safety risk on-site.

Simon Fisher, Catchment Agent for AMEC, explained: “We explored various types of modular systems, ranging from in-situ reinforced concrete, pre-cast concrete, and fabricated steel. At this particular location, the Asset Litespeed chamber was deemed suitable for the hydraulics of the wastewater network and also offered significant time savings. It’s a very dynamic product.” Simon Thomas, Director of Asset International commented on Dwr Cymru Welsh Water’s increased use of innovative modular systems, compared with more traditional alternatives: “It’s encouraging to see Welsh Water opting for innovative products, such as Weholite in AMP 4 projects, as they offer flexibility, efficiency as well as cost and time savings – elements invaluable to the construction industry.

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with both AMEC and Arup under the Welsh Water Asset Management Alliance - it’s a great step forward for Asset in the water industry in Wales.”

New Recruit

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:30:00 -0500

Richard Price

Project Manager

Richard Price, 39 from Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales has recently joined ASSET International Ltd. working as a Project Manager for the company.

Richard brings with him 19 years of experience in the industry having worked at Burdens Ltd., a civils and building materials supplier, where he knew and dealt with ASSET International before the company started manufacturing WEHOLITE, in the days when they manufactured corrugated steel pipes.

Being familiar with ASSET’s products, service and history, Richard was confident in his career move to join the company; “I have known ASSET for over 15 years and am well acquainted with the quality and service they provide, I knew that I wanted to join a company with a good reputation in this field and one where I would be able to maximise my knowledge and experience.”

Anti-slip flooring for LiteSpeed

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:30:00 -0500

Asset Collaborate with Simona UK on Anti-slip Flooring for LiteSpeed CSOs

A new safety development for HDPE Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO) has been devised via a partner project between Asset International Ltd and Simona UK.

An anti-slip flooring material has been produced by Simona UK, to Asset International’s specifications, for use in it’s CSOs. Welded to the floor of the tanks, the anti-slip nature of the product, can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries caused by slips.

To further reduce the risk of injury within the tanks, Asset also requested that the material be produced with high visibility in mind. Simona responded by manufacturing the product from a bright yellow HDPE base material, reducing the risk of trips caused by reduced vision.

“For installers and maintenance crew who are normally required to operate in dark CSO chambers, the presence of yellow flooring on prescribed walkways will reflect any light, and can significantly reduce the risk of trips,” advised Simon Thomas, Asset International Managing Director.

Manufacturer Asset International offered the challenge of designing the safety flooring for it’s LiteSpeed CSOs, to Simona UK, following a period of product development focussed on improving access and safety features.

Asset partners with the plastics manufacturer on a regular basis and was confident that Simona could create an anti-slip solution that would be durable, practical and also highly visible.

“The prototype of the product was always available in black, which has limited its application,” said Thomas. “We were looking for a material, primarily for the water industry, which would be the right texture, chemically resistant, would increase visibility in the dark, and could also be welded into our tanks”

“The product will allow significantly safer access in CSO tanks for maintenance, for example when engineers are called in to maintain screens and filters.”

Philip Eliades, Managing Director of Simona UK advises, “We consistently work alongside Asset in improving product performance, access and safety, and understand the importance of designing a product that meets all of their needs. The possibilities for the longer term usage of the product, across other applications, are currently being explored.”

The product has been rigourously tested at Simona’s German factory prior to use and has already been installed in a LiteSpeed CSO project for Welsh Water in West Wales.

“The application of the new flooring in our tanks will have a significant impact on the long-term safety and accessibility for maintenance teams” added Mr Thomas. “Asset is committed to ensuring that our products are flexible and durable enough to meet customer demands.”

Welsh Water approval for Weholite

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:30:00 -0500

Welsh Water Approves Advanced

Plastic Drainage System

Housebuilders and developers in Wales can now exploit the benefits of the latest in hi-tec plastic drainage systems following the signing of a ground-breaking ‘Parallel Partnering Agreement’ between Welsh Water and manufacturer, Asset International Ltd.

Under the agreement, large diameter HDPE Weholite pipes - available in diameters from 400mm to 3m - can now be used in the construction of stormwater attenuation/storage tanks as part of housing and commercial developments. Contractors can select these lightweight, robust products with the assurance that, if they are installed according to the agreement guidelines, they will be adopted by Welsh Water on completion of the project. The agreement also means Weholite pipes can be used by contractors working on Welsh Water’s ongoing AMP4 infrastructure investment programme.

The innovative ‘Parallel Partnering Agreement’ does not create a direct contractual relationship between Welsh Water and Asset. However, under the administration of the British Plastics Federation’s Plastic Pipes Group (PPG) it will ensure the maintenance of agreed standards governing design, product quality, installation, maintenance, repair, training and research.

A similar, successful partnering agreement governing smaller diameter plastic pipes was signed by the PPG and Welsh Water in 2002.

PPG Director, Frank Jones said: “The BPF is very pleased to be a partner in this important agreement between Asset and Welsh Water. It marks an important step in the evolution of plastic pipe, which already accounts for over 50% of all new pipes in the ground. Through agreements such as this, Asset is pushing frontiers and breaking into a huge new area of application.”

David Evans, Associate Director at Arup and Chairman of the Welsh Water Product Group welcomed the move: “Our unique ‘Parallel Partnering’ approach means that any issues affecting the introduction of this new technology have been worked through with the manufacturer to ensure a standardised approach to installation and acceptable levels of backup and inspection. The exhaustive process of appraisal undertaken with Asset is an example of how Welsh Water is working with its supply chain for the benefit of its customers.”

The new partnership will also drive innovation and research at Swansea University’s Civil Engineering and Polymer Technology departments. Asset International Ltd is currently in discussion with the university, developing briefs for research projects and exploring options for funding a three-year post graduate research post. The results of this relationship will be made available to Welsh Water to increase its knowledge-base of plastic pipe applications.

“The agreement marks a major step forward in the take-up of this technology as Weholite is now approved for use by all water companies in the UK,” said Asset Director, Simon Thomas. “There are already hundreds of Weholite structures across the country, and that figure is growing fast. Because they are fabricated off site quality can be assured. They are also quick to install and designs can be flexible, making Weholite ideally suited to bespoke applications. What is more, under the terms spelled out in our agreement with Welsh Water, contractors know they can expect the highest standards of product quality with responsive design, standardised installation, and ongoing support.”

The first projects under the new agreement are due to start in South Wales in early 2007.

Bespoke Water Solution to Boost Chippenham Water Supply

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:29:00 -0500

A bespoke designed disinfection tank system manufactured by Asset International Ltd for use in a project delivered by Wessex Engineering and Construction Services Ltd (WECSL) is set to boost efficiency of delivery of treated water in Chippenham and its surrounding reservoirs. The £600k improvement programme is designed to increase operational efficiency and minimise the risk of failure at the existing Water Treatment Works in Ivyfields.

Water management solutions expert Asset worked in partnership with engineering consultants Pell Frischmann to design two unique ‘U’ shaped chlorine contact tanks for the project. The system was later manufactured by Asset from three metre diameter high-density polyethylene (HDPE) Weholite pipes.

Richard Lock, Associate at Pell Frischmann, elaborated on the design process: “CFD modelling of the contact tank was undertaken during the design stage to demonstrate a true contact time of 30 minutes and to ensure that efficiency was potentially six-times greater than previously. “To achieve this efficiency requirement; an inlet baffle was provided consisting of a 1.2m high, straight plastic baffle perpendicular to the pipe section and 1m from the inlet pipe.

The bottom 150mm of the baffle was left open to allow emptying and cleaning of the tank”. Compared with traditional materials such as concrete, the flexible and durable composition of Weholite proved beneficial to the specific requirements of the project. Ian Dickie, Construction Manager for Wessex Engineering and Construction, explained: “We’ve worked with Asset on a number of water infrastructure projects in the past, but this marks the first time we have used the Weholite pipe for a dual purpose - as a disinfection tank and a storage pipe. “We’ve utilised concrete tanks in this scenario previously, but the requirements of the project required a specialist shaped design, which Asset’s design was able to offer us”. Asset’s solution utilising a series of long length Weholite pipe, allowed for time saving during the installation process. This subsequently provided WECSL with project cost savings, reduced on site health and safety risks and proved less disruptive to the environment and surrounding community.

Simon Thomas, Managing Director of water solutions expert, Asset International, based in Newport, commented: “We recognise that projects will demand diverse requirements, and aim to provide bespoke designs which respond to specific needs. “Working in partnership with Pell Frischmann, we devised a structure which allows Wessex Engineering to benefit from the ease and speed of installation, coupled with a potential reduction in costs, making Weholite a more attractive option compared with conventional concrete reservoir methods”.

For further information, please contact Catrin Millar on 02920 557 876 (gen: 02920 488 778) or email: Catrin.Millar@workingwordpr.com Asset’s bespoke water management solution, Weholite, is off-loaded to be installed as sections to form the contact tanks Asset’s bespoke water management solution, Weholite, is off-loaded to be installed as sections to form the contact tanks Asset’s bespoke water management solution, Weholite is installed as a section to form one of the final parts of the contact tank

£4m Plus Flood Alleviation Scheme

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:28:00 -0500

An improvement scheme, delivered by Seymour Civil Engineering Contractors Ltd (Seymour) on behalf of Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL), is using an innovative water management solution to reduce the risk of flooding in North Tyneside. The 12-month flood alleviation project costing £4.1 million at a residential development in the village of Shiremoor, will feature a bespoke-designed solution manufactured by Asset International Limited. Following periods of extreme rainfall in 2005, extensive property and curtilage flooding occurred on three occasions at a housing development, Park Estate, on the outskirts of the village.

Almost 150 homes on the estate were affected by the flooding; in February 2006 NWL subsequently added the houses onto the DG5 At-Risk Registers – these registers were created by OFWAT in September 1989 to catalogue all UK properties estimated to flood more than once in ten years. Ian Davison, project manager for NWL, explained how the Park Estate was considered a priority area for flood alleviation work. He said: “Removing properties in the area we serve from the DG5 At-Risk Register by sourcing and using sustainable solutions to flooding has been one of our key priorities in the wake of such adverse weather conditions. “There are many homes estimated to be situated in areas of high flooding risk in the county, researching all possible options ahead of delivering any flood alleviation scheme is essential if we are to find a long-term solution.”

Design consultants Mott MacDdonald Ltd (Mott MacDonald) presented 14 possible design options to NWL. Asset’s innovative high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe, Weholite, was deemed the most suitable solution for this specific project. Mr Davison, added: “This is the first time Northumbrian Water has used Weholite in one of our flood alleviation schemes, and have calculated significant benefits in using this innovative solution, including potential time and cost savings.” Mott MacDonald worked in collaboration with Asset on behalf of NWL, to design a unique tank system consisting of 15 parallel pipe runs - each pipe measures 2,100mm in diameter and 114m in length. In addition, several existing sewers were increased in size and re-directed into the new Weholite tank system, which has a capacity of 6,000 cubic metres when full. Upon project completion, rainwater will enter the tank system via a large inlet manifold.

The water will then be stored in the tank and gradually released though a smaller outlet manifold into the existing sewer system down stream. David Holloway, site agent for Seymour, commented on the ease of installation using Weholite. He said: “Compared with other projects we’ve worked on, Weholite proved very efficient in terms of reducing the project delivery time, which is an important factor in ensuring that a scheme involving numerous partners is delivered within the agreed time-frame. “Asset manufactured and later delivered the pipes to site, which caused less disruption to the surrounding communities and also reduced the amount of time spent in the ground by workers during the installation process.

This ultimately decreased health and safety risks for all.” Simon Thomas, managing director of Asset, based in Newport, south Wales, commented: “With the recent flooding crisis top of the public agenda, this scheme demonstrates how an innovative and bespoke solution can provide a long-term solution to water infrastructure issues. “We’re delighted to have been given the opportunity to act as the partner of choice in this project and hope to work with NWL on other similar schemes in the future”. Asset’s solution is delivered and off-loaded on-site ready for installation by Seymour Civil Engineering Contractors Ltd.