SHIMPAC® Systems | Ironwork: What really lies beneath?

Matt Lambert Posted On May 31, 2023

20 Views

Sponsored · Partner Content – published in partnership with the featured organisation.

In the fast-paced world of infrastructure maintenance, it’s often the case that decision makers opt for short-term fixes rather than investing in long-term, cost-effective solutions.

SHIMPAC® Systems aims to challenge this mindset by offering a groundbreaking solution that goes beyond the surface level in many ways. This article delves into the depths of SHIMPAC®’s innovative approach, shedding light on why decision makers often ignore the most cost-effective and long-lasting solution in favor of traditional methods, and put simply, just continue to do what’s always been done.

The Hidden Potential:

When it comes to road infrastructure, what lies beneath the surface is often overlooked. Ironwork such as manhole covers and drainage grates, is a crucial component of our road networks, but it is vulnerable to wear and tear over time. Traditional approaches to fixing failed ironwork involve temporary patches that only provide short-term relief, leading to recurring problems and increased costs.

SHIMPAC® Systems recognizes the untapped potential of addressing the underlying issues rather than merely treating the symptoms. Their ironwork seating products offer a long-term, cost-effective solution that goes beyond the conventional band-aid fixes. By focusing on the root cause and addressing it comprehensively, SHIMPAC® is revolutionizing the way we approach infrastructure maintenance.

Challenging the Status Quo:

With that said, it’s not just the products themselves. It’s the people choosing them.

So, what lies beneath when it comes to decision making?

One might wonder why decision makers often overlook the most logical and efficient solution. Is it a lack of awareness or simply a disregard for long-term benefits? The truth lies in a combination of factors, including ignorance, lack of care, and a short-sighted perspective.

Decision makers may believe that since they won’t be around when the road enters a new life cycle, they can simply continue with the status quo, passing on the responsibility to future incumbents. This ‘out of sight, out of mind’ mentality perpetuates a cycle of neglect, where authorities fail to take proactive measures to address underlying infrastructure issues. As a result – the issue is never truly solved.

SHIMPAC® Systems | Ironwork: What really lies beneath?

Close up inspection shows the damage that lies beneath when ironwork isn’t seated properly.

Rowland Potter, former Head of Transport at Cambridge & Peterborough Combined Authority told us:

“My experience is that Local Authority scope when tendering operations and maintenance contracts does not provide sufficient room for contractors to do anything other than like for like replacement of street furniture such as ironworks.

“Although innovations maybe available to make efficiency savings in speed of installation, longevity, reduced whole life costs and reduced liability risk, the authority processes for signing off a departure may be too onerous for the officers to consider and the easier option of like for like replacement wins.”

The SHIMPAC® Advantage:

SHIMPAC® Systems challenges this attitude by highlighting the importance of long-term corrective action. Its ironwork seating products not only offer superior durability and reliability but also significantly reduce maintenance costs over the lifespan of the road. Quicker install, no degradation, more environmentally friendly, keeping roadworkers out of harm’s way and around 40% lower cost than other ironwork seating methods means we should be seeing widespread challenging of the ‘We’ve always done it this way’ attitude.

By investing in SHIMPAC®’s innovative solutions, decision makers can break free from the vicious cycle of short-term fixes and ensure a more sustainable future for our road networks. That’s sustainable environmentally, but also economically.

Decision makers can save valuable time, resources, and taxpayer money by minimising disruptions and boosting the longevity of road infrastructure. And all they have to do is simply decide to.

VISIT SHIMPAC® SYSTEMS