Epoxy injection is a method used for the repair of overhead, horizontal or vertical cracks where traditional repair processes cannot be applied, especially in concrete structures. The use of this method varies depending on the direction, depth and material type of the crack in the concrete. The main purpose of epoxy injection is to protect the structural integrity and to eliminate the sensitivity of the structure to moisture. In other words, the purpose is to prevent water or other liquids from entering the crack and making the surface open to corrosion. Epoxy injection is heavily preferred for repairing cracks that occur due to earthquakes, severe cold or heat, poor quality material use or zoning errors. this method provides strength and durability by connecting the surfaces in the applied area.
How Is Epoxy Injection Made?
Before applying the epoxy injection method, the surface to be applied should be examined and the causes of the crack should be investigated. As a result of the examination, it should be decided whether epoxy injection will be applied and if so, what kind of technique should be used. Getting expert support in this regard can make your job easier. The steps to be followed in epoxy injection application are as follows.
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1. First of all, the area where the application will be made is cleaned, including around the crack. A wire brush or pressurized water can be used during the cleaning process. However, care should be taken to ensure that the surface is dry before the application begins.
2. Cracks open at regular intervals in the form of an inverted cone “V” along the entire crack with a width of 10 mm and a depth of 15 mm.
3. After the surface is opened, the packers are placed on the expanded surface with the help of a drill.
4. Epoxy material is injected into the crack with the help of injection pump and packer. During this process, single or double head pumps can be used as needed.
5. Injection process continues until epoxy comes out from the next packer. In this process, care should be taken that the pressure does not exceed 5 bar. Do not forget that the pressure to be applied will increase depending on the size of the crack.
6. After the epoxy injection process, check the sealant for at least 48 hours to ensure its strength and water resistance.
How to Repair Epoxy Cracks?
Epoxy flooring is one of the most preferred flooring methods due to its visuality, easy-to-clean structure and durability. Fluffy, peeling, broken or cracked floors that will occur on these floors, which both you and your loved ones like very much, may bother you. Removal of epoxy cracks and deteriorations is usually performed by applying a new epoxy layer after the floor is leveled with different methods.
In Cases of Cracks, Cracks or Holes
If the crack on the floor is small, then the crack should be filled using different adhesives, including epoxy injection. The adhesive can be applied to the floor with the help of a trowel and the excess can be removed with the help of this trowel. You can apply a new epoxy to the surface after the adhesive you have applied has dried.
If There Is Peeling And Swelling On The Floor
You can use sandpaper and rotary cleaning device to remove bubbles and bumps that occur on the epoxy floor. For small bubbles, a small hand sander may work, while if the bubbles are large, then it would be more appropriate to use a sanding device. While performing this process, you can continue the process for 5-15 seconds by bringing the sanding machine on the bubble. After the process is finished, it can be passed to the other bubble. If there is lift and bubbles on the entire epoxy floor, then you can use the sandblaster. Connect the device to the air compressor and operate it with medium and hard sandblasting options. After starting the device, apply in a certain order on the swelling areas. Continue applying until all the bubbles are gone. Afterwards, clean the floor by vacuuming with a vacuum cleaner and then wipe the surface with a clean cloth dipped in solvent. In the last step, you can apply a thin layer of new epoxy.