In large-scale industrial environments, corrosion under fireproofing is a hidden threat that can seriously degrade structural integrity.
Addressing these challenges requires specialized expertise. Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates (WJE) is a globally recognized firm committed to solving complex structural issues, with an interdisciplinary team dedicated to investigating, analyzing, testing and designing repairs for built and pressurized structures. WJE’s innovative approach and commitment to excellence make it a leader in structural problem-solving.
Corrosion expertise: A multifaceted approach
Corrosion poses a significant threat to the safety and longevity of structures. WJE’s experts combine industry knowledge with advanced technology and laboratory capabilities to determine corrosion’s root causes and recommend economical mitigation methods. Drawing from extensive experience, WJE offers a deep understanding of how to assess and address corrosion across diverse structures, from industrial plants to infrastructure, using thorough field investigation, laboratory testing and customized modeling for reliable solutions.
Advanced field and laboratory assessments
WJE’s field assessments are comprehensive, often beginning with visual observations, hardness testing and acoustic sounding. The baseline evaluations, are often supplemented with state-of-the-art nondestructive evaluation tools, which enable WJE to accurately assess the current condition of the structure in question.
A unique element of its toolkit, WJE Plannotate™ — an in-house, tabletbased notetaking application — allows WJE project managers to customize its assessment process to meet each client’s needs, offering forms, toolbars and on-the-fly programmability. By integrating baseline evaluations with nondestructive evaluations like Half Cell Potential Corrosion Surveying, which forecasts potential future corrosion distress before it becomes visible, and Linear Polarization, which offers a real-time snapshot of instantaneous corrosion rates, WJE can make informed predictions about the structure’s future health.
In WJE’s laboratories, materials scientists and engineers employ a sophisticated blend of analytical tools and experience to uncover the causes of material degradation. Petrographic analysis, for example, characterizes fireproofing composition and detects potential material distress mechanisms. Chloride testing assesses the risk of corrosion to the metal lath, while compressive strength testing gauges the durability of fireproofing materials. Should additional material evaluation be required, WJE’s advanced chemical laboratory capabilities allow for a deeper dive into potential causes. These lab evaluations help WJE’s engineers answer critical questions like "Why did it fail?" and "How can it be fixed?" — laying the foundation for innovative yet reliable solutions.
Predictive modeling and comprehensive reporting
Using its proprietary WJE CASLE™ software, WJE can predict the development of corrosion-related damage over time, allowing for proactive maintenance planning. These predictions allow WJE’s engineers to more effectively evaluate the remaining service life of a structure and to create strategic durability plans for new structures, giving clients confidence in the resilience and longevity of its assets.
WJE’s assessment reports detail the assessment observations, apparent causes of corrosion, the extent of the affected areas, mapping corroded steel locations on drawing sheets for clear visualization, and conceptual repair recommendations as required.
Combining experience, technology and scientific rigor, WJE leads in structural integrity and corrosion prevention, ensuring critical infrastructure endures over time.
For more information, visit wje.com.
