Helping Dumfries to a greener future

Poundfield Precast’s role

We supplied and installed 142 Alfablocs in three different sizes, together with interconnecting straps, ground fixings and end panels. This included:

• 69 x 3.05m Alfablocs
• 24 x 4.05m Alfablocs
• 49 x 6m Alfablocs

The Alfablocs were used to create loading and storage bays, where they will help keep recyclable materials separate to avoid cross contamination.

The benefits of using Alfablocs for waste and recycling

Our range of specialist retaining wall products – which includes Alfablocs – are ideal for construction, agriculture, ports and shipping, along with the waste and recycling industries. As well as offering a cost-effective, quick-to-install solution for separating and containing waste as it moves through a plant for processing, Alfablocs also provide a range of other benefits.

Robust and durable, Alfablocs are ideal for tough environments as they are able to withstand the daily wear and tear of materials being loaded and unloaded. The units are cast using a specific concrete mix, which is specially designed to withstand difficult conditions while maintaining its strength. On the rare occasion that the blocks do suffer damage, they are quick and cost effective to replace compared to using in-situ walls.

In a waste and recycling environment Alfablocs are typically ground fixed to a suitable slab or foundation, which significantly reduces the risk of sliding or toppling due to repeated operational use. In addition, they can also be used freestanding and moved and reconfigured to meet changing requirements for storage when a temporary solution is needed.

Alfablocs can be loaded on one or both sides and are joined together using steel connecting plates to help create one solid wall. This means that any load against the wall is spread along its length rather than just on one unit, providing a heavy-duty and long-lasting solution.

Finally, concrete retaining walls can help reduce the risk of fire spreading, which can be a significant issue at waste management sites when lithium batteries are mixed in with everyday rubbish. Depending on how they are installed, the blocks can create a two-hour firewall which gives the fire service precious time to contain the blaze and prevent it’s spread.

Conclusion

The new household waste recycling centre at Locharmoss has been carefully designed to make recycling easier and more intuitive for local people. Using Alfablocs in its construction will ensure its longevity for many years to come, in turn helping residents to recycle as much of their household waste as possible while supporting Scotland’s ambitions for a greener future.