The Public Power Corporation (PPC), Greece’s largest electricity provider, partnered with Concrete Canvas Hellas to address severe flooding that caused significant damage to the Agrinio Hydroelectric Station’s water canal. The swift and innovative repair solution not only restored operations but also ensured long-term durability with minimal maintenance.
The damaged canal, located in the Agrinio area of Aitolokarnanias, was vital to the hydroelectric station’s operations. The flooding disrupted functionality, leading to financial losses estimated at hundreds of thousands of euros daily. PPC faced an urgent need for a reliable solution that could be executed quickly without compromising quality. Concrete Canvas Hellas stepped in with an advanced approach that exceeded expectations.
A Revolutionary Solution: Gabions and CCX MAT
PPC’s engineers collaborated with the team at Concrete Canvas Hellas to draft a cutting-edge repair plan. The solution combined the use of gabions for structural support with the innovative CCX MAT for ultimate durability and water resistance.
The Repair Process in Detail
Debris Clearance and Channel Reshaping:
The first step involved removing debris, broken concrete, and large river stones from the canal. The channel was reshaped to restore its original flow capacity.
Gabion Installation:
Gabions were installed along the slopes of the canal and filled with stones, providing a robust foundation for the final protective layer.
Application of CCX MAT:
CCX MAT was installed as the top layer over the gabions. It was anchored securely at the crest of the canal using galvanized pegs, hoc rings were used to attach it to the gabions, and stainless steel screws with polymer sealant ensured the overlaps were watertight. At the bottom of the canal slopes, stainless steel anchor bolts and plates connected the CCX MAT to the existing concrete structure.
Immediate Results: Restoring Full Operational Capacity
The repaired canal was reopened to full capacity immediately upon completion, allowing the Agrinio Hydroelectric Station to resume its full production output without further delay. The performance of CCX MAT impressed PPC’s engineers, who noted its durability, rapid installation, and low maintenance requirements as key benefits.
Future Plans with CCX MAT
Buoyed by the success of this project, PPC has scheduled the second phase of canal repairs for early 2025. Additionally, PPC plans to use CCX MAT for other infrastructure applications, including slope stabilization and further canal reinforcements, ensuring cost-effective, long-term solutions across its network.
