Vacuum testing of chambers/sumps, developed by Fibrelite, is the most reliable way to ensure the integrity of a chamber/sump system and the quality of materials and assembly on site

A system must have the ability to contain spills. If fuel escapes it will contaminate the ground and natural water reservoirs. External ground water can exert pressures that seriously effect the performance capabilities and/or permanently damage the chamber/sump. Providing a system and verifying its ability to combat this, during construction and quickly locating faults during usage is the only real commercial and environmental solution. Fibrelite GRP/FRP chambers and 'as-built' testing are the best, if not the only way to satisfy this need

A chamber/sump is likely to be subjected to side wall stress, due to underground water and this increases significantly as burial depths increase as indicated by these illustrations. Deflection occurs in poorly designed chambers, or ones made out of inappropriate materials. Excessive deflection causes structural collapse and interferes with pipe sealing. i.e. they will leak. Poor workmanship during assembly and installation of fittings can also effect the sealing capabilities

Fibrelite have developed a range of GRP/FRP chambers/sumps that comply to pressure requirements down to a depth of 3m (10') with the electronic Sherlock testing system, to verify the performance of the contractor and the system.

Sherlock creates a vacuum in a part-built or completed installation. Air is withdrawn which replicates ground water induced stresses to exactly the expected external value. If there is a leak there will be a loss of pressure in the unit. Sherlock detects it and also the contractor can isolate where the problem lies. Fault rectification can be quickly carried out and the system verified by the contractor or a third party before commissioning.

• pre installation damage
• poor workmanship
• inappropriate or poor installation of pipework
• backfilling disturbing the unit or pipework

Without Sherlock they are almost impossible to identify.

• ability to have independent signing off of the system
• contractors can monitor their work as they progress
• responsibilities are identified
• the integrity of the manway lid and any pipework & fittings inside the installation are tested
• regular testing reduces the scale and possibilities of safety or environmental liabilities
• periodic retro-testing of chambers/sumps, pipework and spill containment

Dispenser chamber testing

The EL46-26 dispenser chamber model can be vacuum tested after the pipework is installed. This will ensure that the system is watertight and will contain any petroleum spills.

A test plate is fitted on the chamber as illustrated.

Fibrelite tank chambers/sumps and dispenser sumps are capable of periodic testing when appropriate after completion.
This test can also apply to outer containment of double wall piping and spill containment.

To receive further information about the Sherlock testing system please contact our marketing department.