Aging Ontario Hydraulic Structures Need Some TLC
Dams and Hydraulic Structures are often the forgotten “wall flowers” of a typical waterpower facility during budget time compared to their more “sexy” cousins the mechanical and electrical systems. However, the fact remains, the vast majority of Ontario’s hydraulic infrastructure was built more than 60 years ago, and many are over 100 years old. While these structures were robustly designed, it is doubtful the original designers expected them to still be around in 2017 without systematic maintenance programs. Unfortunately, these programs have been somewhat lacking for many structures over the last few decades.
Ontario’s hydraulic structures are asked to withstand not only their loading, but the wide range of weather experienced in Ontario. Add that to the fact that concrete placed prior to 1945 is markedly susceptible to freeze/thaw cycles due to its lack of air entrainment, and these aging structures become particularly vulnerable to progressive deterioration within their splash zones.
Those in the business are aware that most dams and powerhouses will inevitably have some leakage over the years. But there is nothing benign about allowing water to infiltrate concrete. Once this happens, the rate of deterioration can grow exponentially, along with the cost for associated repairs.
Poorly designed and/or executed repairs, can often exacerbate the situation, causing deterioration to accelerate.
Mechanical and electrical systems tend to be the “squeaky wheels” for waterpower facilities, and show a direct impact on a plant’s bottom line. However, structural repairs that have been allowed to manifest cannot only be costly, the associated downtime can be devastating to a small plant. Spending $1 on design for added longevity can save $5 on repairs; and spending $5 on repairing minor cracks and spalling, can save $25 on more significant repairs down the road and $125 on major repairs and replacement if left unchecked.
When preparing annual maintenance budgets for 2018, include a “little love” for the structures. They will thank you for years and decades to come.
MKE can start off the process with a Structural Inspection to provide a baseline and recommendations for next steps. Visit our DAMS page for more info.
