SGI Composites (formerly Sui Generis) completed the lining of a semi-submerged cooling tower basin at BOC
SGI Composites successfully completed the refurbishment and GRP lining of a semi-submerged cooling tower basin at BOC, preparing the structure for a new operational purpose. Originally supporting a cooling tower, the concrete basin required upgrading to safely store post-filtered water from a reverse osmosis system. This complex project involved overcoming several structural challenges, including protruding buttresses and exposed reinforcement bars, all of which had to be carefully removed and prepared to accommodate new pipework installations.
To ensure a high-performance, long-lasting solution, the basin was grit blasted back to its original concrete surface before the application of a specialist fibreglass (GRP) lining system. A controlled post-cure process was then carried out to maximise chemical resistance and durability. The result is a robust, corrosion-resistant containment system designed for long-term service in demanding industrial conditions.
BOC, a leading provider of industrial, medical, and specialist gases in the UK and Ireland, selected SGI Composites for their expertise, high safety standards, and ability to deliver a bespoke solution. The project was completed within one week, with the client praising the professionalism of the team and the quality of the finished installation.
Surface Preparation – Grit Blasting
The image shows SGI Composites’ specialist team grit blasting the concrete basin, removing surface contaminants and coatings to expose the original substrate. This critical preparation stage ensures optimal adhesion of the GRP lining system, creating a strong, long-lasting bond for maximum durability and performance.
GRP Lining & Post-Cure
Following surface preparation, a high-performance fibreglass (GRP) lining system was expertly applied to the concrete basin. A controlled post-cure process was then carried out to fully seal the surface and enhance chemical resistance, ensuring the structure is protected against aggressive environments and suitable for long-term industrial use.
Cooling Tower Basin Refurbishment
The cooling tower is positioned on a large concrete basin structure, which was fully refurbished by SGI Composites to enable the safe storage of post-filtered water. The upgraded basin now provides a durable, watertight, and chemically resistant containment solution, purpose-built to meet the demands of its new application.
Complex Structural Preparation
The basin presented a number of technical challenges, with protruding buttresses and exposed reinforcement bars throughout the structure. SGI Composites carefully removed all metalwork and carried out detailed preparation works to create a clean, suitable surface, while also forming new areas to accommodate updated pipework. This ensured the basin was fully ready for the GRP lining system and its new operational use.
GRP Lining Complete
The GRP lining installation is now complete, transforming the basin into a fully sealed, durable, and chemically resistant structure. The refurbished basin is fit for purpose and ready for long-term service, providing a reliable, low-maintenance solution for storing post-filtered water for many years to come.
Fast Turnaround & Client Satisfaction
The bespoke GRP lining solution was successfully completed within just one week, demonstrating SGI Composites’ ability to deliver efficient, high-quality results on complex projects.
The client expressed their satisfaction, stating:
“We were very happy with the work undertaken by SGI Composites. They created a bespoke solution to meet our needs and finished the work within a week. All of their staff were very professional and I would recommend their services to anyone.”