Physical and mechanical properties of the material used for the production of waterstop Flexvinil® TN, Flexvinil® IG and Flexvinil® HC

The Flexvinil® PVC Waterstop is a highly elastic waterproof profile to be used for construction and expansion joints in concrete structures. It is designed as an integral sealing system being capable of absorbing all mechanical and natural stresses. The Flexvinil® PVC Waterstop is particularly suitable for the following applications: water retaining systems, dams, reservoir, hydro-electric power plants, tunnels, water towers, depuration systems, channels, diaphragms, swimming pools, flat-roof, etc. The Flexvinil® PVC Waterstop with a central bulb, both the externally placed type and the centrally placed type, are designed for use in expansion and construction joints. They must be positioned so that the center bulb is not completely cast into the concrete structure. The high elasticity, as well as the special center bulb, provide the perfect absorbtion of all stresses caused by temperature variation and concrete setting. The properties of Flexvinil® PVC Waterstop are: impermeability, elasticity, resistance to aging, alkali and acids aggressive action. The Flexvinil® HC type is particularly conceived to resist to hydrocarbons and minerals oils. Because of its special composition, the Flexvinil® PVC Waterstop can be easily cut with a sharp knife and welded with heat welding equipment directly on the job site. A brief explanation regarding the correct welding procedure with an electrical blade (available from SIREG) follows:

Instruction:

• prepare the two Waterstop sections to be jointed, make sure they are well trimmed and clean them with water or a non-oil solvent;
• make sure the heater blade is clean and leave it in a safe position to warm up;
• fit properly the blade to the Waterstop ends for approximately 20 seconds. The PVC should melt without burning or charring;
• remove the heater blade with a quick upward movement. Joint the melted ends by hand pressing for approximately 20 seconds;
• when cold, test the welding by flexing the waterstop;
• finally clean the heater blade with a cloth, while it is still hot.

Special intersection pieces are available for each type of Flexvinil® PVC Waterstop, namely: crosses, L shape, T shape both vertical and flat.