In early 2024, the City of Victoria conducted an annual inspection of its manholes and noticed that a number of them were on the decline. In total, 66 manholes were found suffering from degradation from H2S gas, root intrusion and cracks causing I&I, that rendered them ineffective; their channels and benching were in particularly poor shape. When Victoria put this project out to bid, Victoria Drains, working in tandem with Vortex Industries, presented their proposed rehabilitation plan and solutions to the city. The City was impressed with the cost savings and ease of installation associated with the team’s proposal, and selected Victoria Drains and Vortex to repair this essential infrastructure.
Beginning in February, the crew removed debris from the manholes as necessary and then carefully inspected each asset.
Patch & Repair First
After cleaning the manholes, the team applied Quadex® Quad-Plug® to repair and restore broken or missing sections of the trough and bench. Hyperform®, rapid-set patching material was then used to fill shape the bench and fill voids in the chimney.
Apply Fully Structural GeoKrete® Complete Restoration
Finally the team spin-cast and spray-applied approximately 1 in. of Quadex® GeoKrete structural geopolymer mortar onto each one to restore their structural integrity. Once troweled to a smooth finish, the manholes were ready for service in less than 24 hours.
THE RESULTS
The collaborative efforts of Victoria Drains and Vortex Companies, from initial presentations and site walks to assessment and recommended trenchless solution, the team completed the manhole rehabilitation project on time, taking just under three months. The crew stayed within Victoria’s budget for this project, and the city has been pleased with the group’s efforts.
