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COMANCO continues gypsum stack liner rehabilitation project

News | February 20, 2025 | By:

COMANCO is working on an ongoing gypsum stack liner rehabilitation project for a phosphate mine client in Florida. The project focuses on enhancing the containment capacity of existing water runoff ponds by increasing their storage volume.

Leak detection and repairs

Before expanding the ponds, a critical step involved a comprehensive leak detection and repair program. In collaboration with Ardaman & Associates, COMANCO excavated an extensive isolation trench (nearly 6600 LF) to facilitate dipole testing. This advanced technique accurately pinpointed areas of concern within the existing liner system. Upon identification, COMANCO swiftly investigated and repaired all detected leaks, ensuring the integrity of the containment structure. Superintendent Josh Philhower led this stage of the project.

Following leak remediation, COMANCO proceeded with the construction phase. Superintendent Jorge Gomez led the team importing clean fill to raise the dike elevations and install a new liner system along the slopes. This phase presented unique challenges as site conditions deviated from the original design plans. COMANCO effectively addressed these challenges through close collaboration with Ardaman & Associates, continuously adapting the installation process to meet the project’s stringent elevation requirements.

Upon completion of liner installation and dike construction, the team finalized the project by importing fill for the perimeter road and restoring the disturbed areas with sod.

Pond liner and pipe installation

Currently, COMANCO is progressing with rehabilitating pond areas 1 and 2, utilizing 80mil high-density polyethylene (HDPE) liner. COMANCO team member Adan Loza supports Sunbelt Rentals in the installation of pipeline (over 5 miles of dual-contained 16″ HDPE pipe within a 24″ HDPE carrier pipe). Concurrently, Adan is assisting superintendent Gomez with the liner deployment in areas 1 and 2.

The client intends to continue its commitment to environmental stewardship at this job site through further project phases. After completing areas 1 and 2, rehabilitation efforts will extend to areas 12 and 11, demonstrating a proactive approach to long-term environmental performance.

Learn more about COMANCO here.

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