Specialist Vehicle GRP Liverpool Airport Fire Engine Case Study
In this case study we’re focussing on our accredited specialist vehicle GRP fire engine repair services with our accredited marine grade repair services.
As an accredited specialist vehicle GRP repair provider to Liverpool John Lennon Airport vehicles, we understand the urgent need to respond to inspection and repairs for airside fire engine call-outs.
In this case, the call-out required a rapid response onsite inspection for potential marine-grade repair within the confined space of the fire engine’s internal water tanks.
Accredited Provided in Specialist Vehicle GRP
As a Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), Phenolic GRP and Carbon Fibre manufacturer, at AllScope Projects we are renowned for our work across sectors such as rail, marine , bathing hygiene units, coach craft, agriculture and public realm, but a key area of our portfolio is Specialist Vehicle GRP including heavy-duty service vehicles.
We work with fleet operators, procurement managers, insurance companies and vehicle conversion specialists providing specialists Phenolic GRP and traditional polyester GRP installations, scheduled maintenance, repairs, parts and accessories.
Site Visit: Assessing Fire Engine With A GRP Leak
We were called out to inspect a fire engine that had a water leak, but it was unknown where the leak was coming from.
With a 10,000 litre water tank and foam tank onboard, it meant climbing into the confined and dark space of the vehicle and manoeuvring around the bulk-head, chasis and the water tanks internal baffles.
Vehicles that carry water tanks with large quantities of water require internal baffles that reduce the movement of water. Large movements, surges or sloshing of water when accelerating, braking and manoeuvring can destabilise the balance of a vehicle, for example when going round corners, especially at speed.
On inspection we identified a crack in the corner of a tank, near the bulk-head, that was the most likely cause of a leak and could be repaired to required marine grade standards.
AllScope GRP Repairs Workshop
Repairs of this nature can be completed quicker and in a safer environment when completed off-site at AllScope Projects repairs workshop.
Airport airside restrictions make time sensitive on-site GRP repairs impractical due to the flammable nature of composite repairs and organising the security clearance for equipment, materials and engineers.
Inspections and repairs within AllScope Projects repair centre also enable more detailed inspections within suitable controlled conditions.
Fire Engine Water Tank Repair Timeline
Monday: Delivery & Strip Down
The fire engine arrived via transporter and into our repair workshop. Our team dismantled the water tank internals and removed the baffles for clear access and inspection.
Tuesday: Leak Location & GRP Preparation
We identified and confirmed the small crack in the tank corner near the bulkhead was the cause of the leak. A GRP patch was custom-made using marine-grade resin and catalyst. It was left to cure overnight in the required environmental conditions.
Wednesday: Structural Repair Completion & Testing
The repair was completed and the tank refilled with water so that we could test and pass the structural integrity of the repair.
Thursday: Confirmation of Successful Repair & Refit
With no further leaks detected, the tank was drained, dried, and baffles reinstated according to original specification.
Friday: Return to Service
The fire engine was collected and recommissioned into service at Liverpool Airport.
Why Choose AllScope Projects for Specialist Vehicle GRP?
As a specialist vehicle GRP parts, maintenance and repair provider, our GRP services include:
- Lloyd’s insurance-approved works.
- Use Marine-grade materials and curing methods.
- On-site inspections and repairs where suitable.
- Provide reliable timelines for urgent fleet repairs.
- In-house and mobile team capability.
- Understanding of specialist vehicle use, specifications and strict guidelines of manufacturers and additional parts.
For more information on specialist vehicle grp parts, maintenance and repairs, or to talk to us about your next GRP project or prototyping, call us on 01282 446330 or use our Contact Us form
Made In Britain Approved Manufacturer