A Powerful Innovative Tool in Geohazard Management

Novel backfilling technology to reduce the impact of ground movements on pipe and increase safety and reliability of energy transportation.

Our Technology

Protecting the pipelines and maximizing their operational life by reducing strain concentration in high-risk geohazard areas.

Introduction

What is Geobuffer?

Geobuffer is a special type of engineered backfill element with unique mechanical properties that significantly reduces the impact of ground movements on buried pipelines. The Geobuffer system is a structural-based solution for pipelines strain management that increases their capacity to endure large ground movements.

How does it work?

Geobuffer blocks are designed to be flexible in one direction, allowing the pipe to move within its cross-sectional plane, while being stiff in other orthogonal directions to resist soil and overburden pressures. These blocks are installed adjacent to the pipe in a specific arrangement based on the expected direction of pipe displacement, guiding the pipe through a controlled deformation that prevents strain concentration.

Key Advantages

High Performance

The Geobuffer system offers high displacement tolerance while keeping the pipe underground, preventing pipe exposures.

Low Cost

The Geobuffer system provides a high level of improvement in failure probability and service life extension at a fraction of the cost compared to other remediation options.

Orthotropic Properties

These properties give Geobuffers the ability to resist soil pressures while remaining flexible enough to accommodate pipe displacement more effectively than homogeneous backfills.

Built-In Monitoring System

Pre-mounted sensors are installed in Geobuffer blocks at the shop and connected to a Remote Monitoring Unit (RMU) with minimal on-site effort to monitor deformation in real time.

Easy Installation

The elements are made of relatively light material, making them easy to transport and install without requiring special equipment for lifting or installation.

Integration

The Geobuffer system can be installed as a standalone project or in combination with geotechnical improvement elements such as trench drainage system.

We’re Experienced in this field

ALFA Upgrades Inc. provides cutting-edge solutions to improve the integrity of underground pipelines that traverse geohazard areas with our unique Geobuffer technology. We offer a comprehensive, full-cycle service that includes initial evaluation, design, fabrication, installation and monitoring of the Geobuffer system.

Get to Know Us

Why Choose Us

At ALFA Upgrades Inc., we provide safe, high-performance, and cost-effective solutions that enhance the safety and reliability of pipeline systems. Our technology is versatile and adaptable to various geohazard conditions. preventing catastrophic failures and severe consequences.

Versatility

Our adaptable solutions excel in any environment, using advanced technology and expertise to deliver reliable performance anywhere.

Safety

Safety is our priority. We ensure secure, reliable pipelines with advanced monitoring and strict industry standards to protect people and the environment.

Efficiency

We deliver precise, efficient solutions with advanced technology, ensuring high quality, minimal downtime, and cost-effectiveness.