Sports Base Testing: Establishing the foundation for a high performance turf system.
Purpose Key Stage Inspections (KSI) were developed to deliver the best possible outcome in the construction of a sports field. Sports Labs introduced the KSI process to ensure quality, stable and durable bases.
Benefits The KSI process identifies problems as early as possible in the construction process, which greatly reduces the chances of substandard or non-compliant works while ensuring all specifications are met. Early intervention provides contractors ample time to
Which Key Stage Inspections are typically performed during the construction of sports bases? Checks are typically made at the following stages. These may be inspection works, testing or both.
• Formation (soils)
• Drainage
• Stone Foundation (sub-base)
• Asphalt Layer
• Shock Pad
Why are Key Stage Inspections so important?
It is important to identify problems as early as possible. When the works are inspected and tested regularly, it reduces the opportunities for things to be incorporated into the works which are substandard or indeed non-compliant. Tests benchmark the quality and compliance of the works.
To ensure all specifications are being met, pre-set limits or criteria are used to measure things like bearing capacity, planarity and infiltration rates.
To Allow Contractors Time Key Stage Inspections benefit the contractors by providing them as much time as possible to resolve any problems. The frequent communication between engineers and contractors means that healthy engagements can take place.
This creates an environment which benefits both working relations and, ultimately, the outcome of the job.
To Save Money: The bottom line is that Key Stage Inspections can help all parties avoid very costly rectification works to base construction and the remedial works to the artificial turf or polymeric systems.
Compaction Testing
Compaction is achieved when sub-base materials are oscillated, rolled, and flattened. Poor compaction can derail an installation, resulting in dips and pits due to water infiltration and traffic. Sports Labs can assess stone quality, material depth, and compaction level to ensure a base retains its shape and stability over time.
Planarity Testing
Planarity testing will establish the flatness of a sports surface and it is the best index of base compaction. A flat base with proper compaction contains no depressions to hinder playability or safety. Sports Labs evaluates compliance with all stringent requirements for planarity enforced by national and international governing bodies.
Infiltration Testing
The success of any artificial turf system hinges on its drainage capacity. Measuring infiltration, or the flow rate of water through the surface, will predict how efficiently your field will perform during regular rainfall and heavy downpours. Sports Labs will target the drainage performance challenges which impair the quality of your installation.
In our opinion, KSIs are the only way to guarantee that the finished pitch or athletics track will fully meet the intended specification.
Sports Labs
North America Headquarters
4295 Cromwell Road, Suite 204
Chattanooga, TN 37421
E: support@sportslabs.com
Tel: +1 (423) 541-5526