solutions for seal tunnels, mine shafts, canals and more

Large-Scale Inflatable Plugs: The Innovative Solution for Permanent Sealing

Tunnels, mine shafts, canals, and similar structures often need to be sealed either permanently or for long term projects. The reasons for blocking can range from handling repairs, ending service, or preventing flooding. The problem is that effectively sealing off such large structures can be very difficult. But there is a solution. At Petersen, we have helped several customers complete projects and permanently block spaces using large-scale inflatable plugs.

What are large-scale inflatable plugs (aka grout bags)? 

Large-scale inflatable plugs are commonly used for blocking off mine shafts, drifts, tunnels, and canals for emergency, abandonment or maintenance. They are custom designed and engineered to meet the size, pressure, temperature, and chemical requirements of specific projects.  At Petersen, our large-scale inflatable plugs aka Grout Bags have a Kevlar outer cover to make them extremely durable and help avoid punctures during installation and operation. 

How large-scale inflatable plugs work?

After being designed and built to match the job’s requirements, deflated inflatable plugs are placed in the canal, mine, or other structure. Once in place, the plug is then inflated with air, inert gas, water, or concrete, conforming to the shape of the structure and providing an effective, long-term seal. The primary benefit of large-scale inflatable plugs and similar inflatable seals are that they have a small enough deflated diameter to easily maneuver and place them in confined areas, where they can then be inflated to their full size. 

A real world example 

One example of large-scale inflatable plugs being used in the field was at the Cigar Lake Mine in 2009, then the world’s largest undeveloped uranium mine. At the time it was being developed, work on the mine was consistently disrupted by flooding, including a particularly bad flood in 2008 that completely stopped work. 

Cameco had to create a barrier in that level that would completely seal off the area from flooding. After looking at different methods, they ended up using a large-scale inflatable plug (almost 7 meters expanded) filled with grout from Petersen Products. 

The inflatable plug was inserted into the mine and inflated first with water. Once inflated, the water was displaced by a specially formulated grout until grout was flowing out of the plug. Once the grout set, the seal effectively stopped flooding and re-entry was successfully accomplished in 2010. 

Large-scale inflatable plugs deliver flexibility 

In addition to permanently sealing tunnels, shafts, and other structures, another key advantage of large-scale inflatable plugs is that they can also be temporary. By filling with inert gas, air, or water, the bag plug can be deflated and removed once the maintenance or repair work is completed. No other tunnel/shaft seal method provides this level of versatility or flexibility. 

If you have any questions about large-scale inflatable plugs or other inflatable seals, contact the Petersen team today! 

 

Disclaimer: The information may be used but with no warranty or liability. This information is believed to be correct but should always be double checked with alternative sources. Strictly adhere to and follow all applicable national and local regulations and practices.

Regardless of these comments, it is always necessary to read and understand manufactures instructions and local regulations prior to using any item.