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The Bischoff Reservoir was constructed in 1960 in a small town in southeastern Indiana. Unfortunately, a leak developed fairly soon after it was built, and experts estimated that it was draining up to 30 gallons per minute. By 2001, the reservoir was losing approximately 800 gallons of water per minute through the leak in the limestone formation, and it became obvious that dam repair was essential. Fortunately, the experienced and trusted team at T. Luckey Sons of Harrison, OH, stepped up to perform the necessary work.

Understanding the Extent of the Dam Repair That Saved the Bischoff Reservoir

Cement Grouting

The first approach to repairing the leak involved cement grouting; however, the hydrostatic pressure was too high for the cement to settle, and it kept displacing the grout. Even though the project was eventually terminated, the contractor was able to locate the leak vein, which is a critical step in the dam repair process.

Chemical Grouting

After evaluating the situation, industry leaders from T. Luckey Sons determined that expanding polyurethane grout was the answer. For chemical grouting to provide a permanent solution, drilling and casing would be necessary.

Drilling & Casing

dam repairTheir team drilled through approximately 30 feet of overburden before hitting roughly 15 feet of limestone. In some areas of the limestone, they hit deep voids, and were able to confirm connection to the leak, as well as the discharge time of the water, by conducting tests using concentrated dye. Once they calculated how much reaction time the chemical grout would need, they sealed the larger voids and then worked up to the main leak vein over a five-day period.

The Bischoff Reservoir is just one of the many projects that T. Luckey Sons has successfully completed. Based in Harrison, OH, they offer their services to clients around the globe. In addition to dam repair, they also provide groundwater control, concrete jacking, and creative restorative solutions to complicated structural issues. You can request a free consultation by visiting their website or by calling (513) 353-2345. 

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