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Grouting Tips Adapted from Information by ChemGrout, Inc. When it comes to mixing and pumping cementitious grouts, there are quite a few factors which need to be taken into con- sideration. Since there are a wide variety of materials available for various applica- tions, it is important to become familiar with the specific characteristics of the material being used. Generally, no matter what material is used, it should be of a pourable consis- tency for successful pumping. If the material can be poured out of a pail or bucket, it can most likely be pumped, except for repair mortars, which tend to be mixed in a thicker consistency and require special pumping techniques. Materials containing aggregates pump and perform best when the consistency is kept to the lower range of pourable; in other words, not too wet. Some materials contain accelerating admixtures to reduce the setting time. Once the material is mixed, it must be pumped immediately and kept in motion, and subsequent batches must be mixed and pumped as rapidly as possible. Any delays in the appl ication process could result in plugged hoses and equipment. Temperature also has an effect on these materials; exposure of the hose to the sun on a hot day can also accelerate the set time even more. It may even be necessary in some cases to cool the material, the mix water, or even the hose itself. Pumping distances should always be kept to a minimum, and hoses should run as straight as possible. When circumstances require longer hose lengths, every effort should be made to use every advantage possible to ensure a successful application. Some materials simply cannot be pumped for long distances, so its best to know the proposed material characteristics before attempting a production procedure. Before attempting to mix and pump production materials, remember to rinse the mixer and charge the pump hopper with sufficient water to thoroughly flush the pump and all grout lines. This rids the grouting system of any residual materials or scale which may exist. Once completed, remove the grout hose from the pump and drain out all water by elevating one end , or by progressively elevating the entire hose, starting at one end and proceeding to the other. Next, mix a slurry composed of portland cement in approximate proportions of 6½ to 7½ gallons of water to one bag (94 pounds) of cement, and pump it through the grouting system. This removes residua l water from the hose and lubricates it for the production material to follow. The production grout may be mixed and pumped im mediately behind the slurry mix, which is evacuated from the hose, and may be retrieved in a bucket. Do not attempt to pum p production material through a dry hose. Finally, no matter how conscien- tious an operator may be, occasionally a hose will get plugged. If this happens, the only sure way to remove the plug is to empty it of material. Beating on it with a hammer or running over it with a vehi- cle is NOT suggested and is rarely suc- cessful. Make sure you have a sufficient length of small-diameter stiff tubing, hose, or plastic pipe which can be con- nected to a water source to properly flush the grout from the hose. engagements f 90% of his busin tion, and motiva customer service sales, manageme in 25 countries o given over 4000 Speaking Profe Tim Connor, CS rom previous ess is repeat tional topics. communica- nt, leadership, n a variety of presentations ssional) has P (Certified Ti S k 4 @ 704-875 new client “G Call him and a clients. il -1230 uarantee”. sk about his TimConn m pea s u or.com gma .com For more information, contact Dave Schulenberg E-mail: contactus@mwwda.org • www.mwwda.org Montana Water Well Drillers Association Convention & Trade Show (Feb. 7 - 9, 2018) Best Western Plus Heritage Inn Great Falls, Montana Wednesday, February 7 th Exhibitor and SilentAuction Set-up, Early Registration, and MWWDA Hospitality Room Thursday, February 8 th Registration, Silent Auction Opens, 811 Update (1 CEU), TBD Class (1 CEU), Annual Meeting and Lunch, Trade Show, Cocktails, and Supper Friday, February 9 th Registration, Hydraulics (1 CEU), Pumps (1 CEU), Business Succession, Past Presidents Meeting, and Board of Directors Meeting 14 JANUARY 2018 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® There can be no knowledge without emotion. We may be aware of a truth yet until we have felt its force, it is not ours. To the cognition of the brain must be added the experience of the soul. ~ Arnold Bennett