Train Maintenance Depot

IRL is particularly proud of this installation due to the technical application of the product in the timeframe required by the client, whilst maintaining quality standards in a demanding programme of works.
It was only possible to deliver this project on time due to an excellent working relationship between client, contractor and manufacturer. This conjunctive method not only proved time and cost-effective, it demonstrated best practice for the industry. It also showcases the importance of selecting the correct specification for the site and how it is to be used; uses skilled operatives that are able to install fast-curing flooring systems due to upskilling and investment, and satisfies the client by delivering a project on-time to save money and downtime whilst working in a sustainable and responsible way.

IRL was informed via its close contact with Bombardier that works were going ahead at the company’s Willesden Depot, with interested parties being invited to tender for the work. Its sales team immediately contacted the buyer in order to express IRL’s interest in working with Sika on this project. The specification at this point was not a Sika specification. However, IRL and Sika were able to demonstrate to the client that they had previously worked together on other Bombardier depots and that their specification could be applied in the timescales given.
The scope of the work was to prepare and apply a MMA non-slip flooring system with 0.7-1.2mm quartz aggregate to an area of 3625m2. In addition, there was to be an area of 950m2 to be treated to the depot’s pit wall with a suitable material. The specification was to colour-match the existing flooring. It was also decided that a rapid-cure MMA system would take into account project downtime and allow full services to return to the depot as soon as possible.
The biggest challenge for contractors was undertaking works within the confines of an operational maintenance depot. This also had to fall within the tight deadline of the phased areas.
Access was also an issue, as this was restricted by low bridges on the approach. Delivery logistics needed to be planned in order to transport the materials to this site.

Sikafloor® RB25 system was chosen for this project for two reasons: the performance and suitability of the product in this environment, and the fast-curing flexibility/speed of application.
Bombardier required a flooring solution that provided a safe working environment for its employees to carry-out maintenance in a live rail environment. The availability of various colours within the Sikafloor® 18 Pronto range made this possible to easily mark out walkways.
The fast-curing properties of the RB25 system also made it the perfect choice to ensure the project was completed in a timely manner.
Gas monitoring for the benefit of all staff and employees on site was carried out for the duration of the works by IRL Group Limited.
Given the size of the project and the phased programme to complete the installation, the ease of application of Sikafloor®RB25 was another important factor in its specification.

In terms of quality and level of service offered to the client, IRL Group has worked with Bombardier for many years with Sika as the preferred material manufacturer. As always, IRL was able to meet the client’s requirements, delivering a safe and durable floor that was fit for purpose.
Together with Sika, IRL was able to offer the client an exemplary level of service, thus being the reason Bombardier decided to return to IRL and Sika for its flooring needs.

IRL’s installers’ high-level of workmanship and attention to detail earned the following, glowing testimonial from the Client

“I just wanted to thank Wayne and his team for the excellent work carried out at our Willesden Depot. The remit for the work was to prepare and apply approximately 4,000m2 of MMA Flooring. This was done effortlessly despite having the challenge of working within the confines of an operational maintenance depot. This also had to fall within the tight deadline of our phased areas. Throughout the project, IRL employees displayed a high level of professionalism, experience, dedication and commitment to quality. They worked well in a team-oriented atmosphere and worked well with the project team to find solutions to problems and overcome challenges during the course of the project.
I would have no hesitation in considering IRL on future projects. It was a pleasure working with them.”

Credits

• IRL Group Limited
• Sika Ltd