Port of Tyne: North Shields

SYNOPSIS

Thortech International undertook a resurfacing project at the North Shields International Ferry Terminal, one of the UK’s busiest deepwater ports.

The berth required an anti-slip, hardwearing surface and for the work to be completed to a tight deadline while co-operating with port operations.

BRIEF

With the need to move vehicles quickly and safely on to vessels, an anti-slip, hardwearing surfacing system was required for the linkspan and pontoon at the terminal. The project needed to be completed quickly, with minimum disruption to the busy schedule of DFDS and the Port.

PROCESS

The work was scheduled over a five-day period but it was essential to allow for normal Berth operations on days 2 and 4. Thortech International adjusted the contract programme to manage this tight deadline and the berth’s schedules.

The linkspan and pontoon surface areas totalled to 800m² but Thortech International concentrated on the trafficked ar­eas only, to reduce the total area to 360m² and meet the clients budget. To begin, the old surface was re­moved.

Following removal, the deck surfacing was enclosed shot blasted before an E5 solids primer was applied. This was followed by a coating of Chelford 30 Quartz and the application of the Traffideck Grip 4000X sys­tem.

To finish, the system was dressed with a Dynagrip 1-3mm aggregate, with the final sweeping-off taking place on the morning the ferry was loaded.

OUTCOME

Despite periods of inclement weather, the project was completed on time. The terminal now continues to operate efficiently with a safer, anti-slip Thortech International surface.