Japanese Seismic Technology now in New Zealand provides Floatless Manhole technology to prevent levitation of manholes due to liquefaction.
Hynds Limited has signed an historic partnership with Nippon Hume International Ltd in Tokyo allowing the introduction of a retrofitted Floatless Manhole System. The system dramatically reduces earthquake damage, subsequent infrastructure repair costs, and is easily fitted to any existing concrete manhole at risk of floating during a seismic event. January 2012, Hynds undertook a study tour of Japan looking at Seismic resilient technologies with the intent to invest in products that prevent infrastructure destruction, and protect people from injury. SCIRT was then consulted to determine their needs and ensure any product development was specifically suited to the effective rebuilding of Christchurch’s infrastructure. A relationship with Nippon Hume International developed throughout 2012 culminating in the formation of a Floatless Method Technical Assistance Agreement. The signing took place at the Tokyo Metropolitan Sewerage Service Corp on 10th December 2012 and was widely reported throughout Japan. This significant occasion was attended by senior officials from Hynds, Nippon Hume Intl Ltd, the Japan Seismic Resilience Products Council, Tokyo Metropolitan Sewerage Service Corporation, and Nippon Koei Co Limited. Commencing this month, Hynds will be working with local councils and designated installers to progressively introduce this technology in to the NZ Market. “We are very excited about our partnership with Nippon Hume International Ltd” says Aaron Hynds, signatory and Director of Hynds Limited. “They have many technologies able to minimise damage caused by seismic activity, and we look forward to introducing further products to prevent post-earthquake damage.”
