INSTALLATION TRIALS

Installation speed
The installation speed performance of this trial was important as it enabled the project to forecast cost in terms of manpower and road closure implications for any commercial order.

Best method of installation
The installation was evaluated to determine the best processes to maximise performance and result, and increase installation speeds further.

TRAFFIC TRIALS

The key evaluation criteria were the following:

Impact of vehicular traffic upon the rubber panels
The possibility of gapping between panels was monitored throughout operational trials (although it was highly unlikely to occour). Evaluation of the panels for signs of wear or deformation within the wheel path area was also conducted. Unlike level crossings, vehicular traffic has been running down the modular platform, creating new forces and wear factors. The trials included sudden braking and acceleration patterns.

Road, rail and pedestrian safety
Research and trials were conducted to determine the most appropriate on-bed traffic warning and guidance lining to ensure the safety of tram and vehicle users.

Entry and exit points
An evaluation was made of the location, gradient and installation of the vehicular access ramps on and off the rubber highway. This was determined in terms of safety, wear and driver experience.

TRIAL FUNDING

WRAP (the Waste & Resources Action Programme)

Wrap has funded the Corby trials following an open call for demonstration trials using UK post consumer tyres in a range of new applications. The funding covered installation of the Corby demonstration site along with recycled rubber panel testing using 8000 vehicle movements over 8 working days.

WRAP is a major UK programme established to promote resource efficiency. Its particular focus is on creating stable and efficient markets for recycled materials and products and removing the barriers to waste minimisation, re-use and recycling.

A not-for-profit company, WRAP is backed by substantial Government funding from Defra and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Working in seven key areas (Construction, Retail, Manufacturing, Organics, Business Growth, Behavioural Change, and Local Authority Support), WRAP’s work focuses on driving forward recycling and materials resource efficiency within these sectors, as well as wider communications and awareness activities including the £18 million national Recycle Now campaign for England.

More information on all of WRAP's programmes can be found on www.wrap.org.uk

TRIAL LOCATION

The trial track was installed at a Gefco transport site. Gefco has 55 years of experience in vehicle transport and the improvement of transport processes, employing more than 2,000 people dedicated to automotive activity, operating a base of 4,345 dedicated rail cars; afleet of 1,900 trucks; 80 distribution centres and 40 preparation centres across Europe.

"Gefco were pleased to cooperate with HoldFast allowing them to utilise the Corby facilities for testing purposes. It is hoped that in time, the whole rail sidings could become a "rubber platform", enabling dual usage for train activity and vehicle parking where necessary. The surface meets our quality standards for vehicle storage and could also provide a safer working environment for our employees to operate."
Graham Holgate
Centre Manager, Gefco, Corby

Installation began on 6 April 2006.