Future Composites Solutions Discussed at Army Corps Dam Site Visit

On February 22, Vectorply Vice President of Engineering Trevor Gundberg joined many other ACMA members on a visit to the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam site to learn more about United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Lock and Dam Gate Structures. With more than 70% of the inland waterway systems’ steel gates in the United States nearing their design life, many of these structures will need to be replaced in a timely, cost-effective manner. The Corps of Engineers’ goal throughout the replacement process is to create a solution that will last twice as long as previous water way system gates, require minimal upkeep, and can withstand the elements.  

Trevor met with many experts in the field and discussed how composites could safely and effectively solve this problem. Although the process will be a massive undertaking, composites will provide safer, more effective infrastructures that will last for upwards of a century. The next step for the team is to draw up the certification requirements for composites to be the solution to these aging waterways. 

 When speaking of his experience, Trevor states, “It was very interesting and inspiring both to see in person the applications that could be improved by using composites and to discuss these applications with the Army Corps of Engineers representatives. As a group, we all recognized areas where composites can and will increase service life and reduce lifetime maintenance costs.” 

Thanks again to the ACMA for inviting us to experience the exciting changes that are in the works for various infrastructures throughout the United States.