Morisset & Arcadia Vale Reservoir Renewals
About the project
The 35 metre diameter, nine megalitre reinforced concrete structures were built in the 1960s. The Morisset and Arcadia Vale reservoirs had a history of concrete delamination and spalling. Pensar was engaged to strengthen the assets with a key objective of the works being seismic strengthening to mitigate the risk of the structure failing in the event of an earthquake.
Location
Lake Macquarie, New South Wales
Client & Duration
Hunter Water
Aug 2024 - Jul 2025
Project Scope
- Removal of existing render and soft concrete
- Removal and replacement of all joints in both floor and walls
- Carbon fibre reinforcement panels strips installed internally of the reservoir
- Polyurea coating of all walls internally
- Extending and pouring of new external footing for strengthening
- Installation of new post tensioning system
- Refurbishment of render layer
- Pipework coating and relocation
- Managing confined space entry
- External and internal scaffold access
Challenges
- Due to asbestos in joints, the removal became a class B procedure
- There were procurement challenges due to the short turnaround between the start of the project and the first shutdown
- Adjustments to the procurement of materials was required to hit critical deadlines. Design adjustments were made depending on material availability
- Due to the close proximity of the local community, Pensar maintained low noise levels throughout the working day
- Careful planning and scheduling to ensure a smooth execution of program during critical shutdown was required.
Achievements
- A positive relationship was formed between Pensar site crew and Hunter Water
- Worked collaboratively with the client to ensure programming and network operational delays were clearly communicated
- Accelerated project completion through the utilisation of extended working hours
- Clear communication between client, designer and project team to ensure the best outcome for Hunter Water
- Onsite recycling of scrap material.