At IJB Engineering, we pride ourselves on our expertise and dedication to preserving historical engineering mechanisms. Recently, we undertook a significant project at the Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, focusing on the refurbishment of the Victorian Float located at the Main Lake. This project not only showcased our technical skills but also our commitment to maintaining and restoring historical artifacts.

Project Overview

The Victorian Float, a crucial component of the Main Lake’s water management system, had seen better days. Due to its age and prolonged immersion in water, the float assembly had accumulated significant algae and freshwater mussel growth, contributing to corrosion and structural damage. The Kew Engineering Department identified the need for a comprehensive overhaul to restore the float to its former glory and ensure its functionality for years to come.

Initial Removal and Transportation

The refurbishment process began with the careful removal of the float from the Main Lake. This task was executed by the site engineering department at Kew using a Manitou telehandler, a versatile piece of equipment ideal for handling such delicate operations. The float was then transported to our central workshop, where our team of skilled engineers and technicians awaited its arrival.

Assessment and Cleaning

Upon arrival at our workshop, the float underwent a thorough cleaning process. The bottom section, heavily covered in algae and freshwater mussels, was meticulously cleaned to expose the underlying metal. This step was critical in identifying the full extent of the corrosion damage caused by years of water immersion.

Corrosion Damage and Repair

With the float assembly cleaned, our team conducted a detailed inspection to assess the corrosion damage. Several holes were discovered, indicating significant wear and tear. To address this, we welded steel patches over the holes. These patches were designed to not only cover the damaged areas but also provide new sockets to facilitate a water pressure test. This test was essential to ensure the integrity of the repairs and the overall functionality of the float.

Shaft Repair

In addition to the holes, the connected shaft of the float showed signs of wear and damage. Our engineers undertook the task of repairing the shaft, addressing the worn and damaged areas to restore its operational efficiency. This repair was crucial for the float’s performance, as the shaft plays a key role in its movement and stability.

Fabrication of New Components

The refurbishment project also required the fabrication of new components. Specifically, two new connecting brackets were needed to attach the floats to the Crocodile Sluice Chute. Our fabrication team designed and constructed these brackets to ensure a perfect fit and optimal functionality. These brackets were integral to the overall operation of the Victorian mechanism, connecting the float assembly to the sluice chute and ensuring smooth water flow management.

Priming and Coating

To extend the life cycle of the refurbished float and brackets, both components were primed and coated with a marine-type paint. This specialized paint was chosen for its durability and resistance to water and environmental elements, providing a protective layer that would help prevent future corrosion and damage. This step was essential in ensuring the longevity of the refurbished components and maintaining their aesthetic appearance.

Transportation and Reinstallation

Once the refurbishment process was complete, the float and brackets were carefully transported back to the Royal Botanical Gardens Kew. The transportation process was meticulously planned to ensure the safe arrival of the components. Upon reaching the site, the Kew Engineering Department took over the reinstallation process. Our team worked closely with them to ensure that the reinstallation was seamless and that the refurbished components were correctly integrated into the existing system.

Conclusion

The Victorian Float Refurbishment project at the Royal Botanical Gardens Kew was a testament to IJB Engineering’s commitment to excellence and historical preservation. The successful completion of this project not only restored the functionality of the Main Lake’s water management system but also preserved an important piece of Victorian engineering history.

By leveraging our technical expertise and dedication to quality, we were able to address the various challenges posed by the float’s condition. From the initial removal and cleaning to the detailed repairs and fabrication, every step of the process was executed with precision and care. The use of marine-type paint ensured that the refurbished components would withstand the test of time and environmental exposure, providing a durable solution for Kew Gardens.

At IJB Engineering, we understand the importance of preserving historical mechanisms and the role they play in our heritage. Our work on the Victorian Float is just one example of how we bring our engineering skills and passion for history together to deliver exceptional results. We look forward to future projects where we can continue to contribute to the preservation and restoration of historical engineering artifacts.

For more information on our services and to see how IJB Engineering can assist with your engineering projects, please visit our website or contact us directly. Our team is always ready to take on new challenges and provide innovative solutions to meet your needs.