Companies and contractors in the electric utility, power transmission and construction industries are searching for new solutions that comply with industry regulations and enable efficient workflow. In response to an industry need, Newpark Mats and Integrated Services (Newpark), a division of Newpark Resources, Inc. and a provider of ground protection solutions, offers the fully integrated DURA-BASE EPZ Grounding System for utility and power transmission operators and service providers in North America. The system was featured at the 2016 IEEE PES T&D Conference and Exposition (Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center; Dallas, May 2-5), Booth #5960.
The DURA-BASE EPZ Grounding System expands upon the benefits of the DURA-BASE composite mat and provides an innovative solution for creating equipotential zones in utility and power transmission applications—which has historically been a long-standing challenge for industry contractors. Newpark’s EPZ Mats™, which have passed third party testing using ASTM standards, include bus bars to secure grounding and offer optional integrated safety zone rails designed to keep workers and equipment safely within the work zone. The features of the EPZ Mat are fully compatible with the patented DURA-BASE Advanced-Composite Mat System, providing a complete, cost effective solution for access roads and work platforms for power-transmission construction and maintenance projects.
The DURA-BASE Advanced-Composite Mat System is a precision-engineered system that provides timely jobsite access while protecting the ground beneath. When properly planned, up to 30 percent fewer mats can be deployed, saving both time and money. Additionally, trucking costs are reduced by two-thirds due to the lightweight composite material of the mats – enabling trucks to carry 46 DURA-BASE mats per load. DURA-BASE Advanced-Composite mats are non-porous and easily cleaned on site to reduce cross contamination and post job cleanup.
The advanced-composite mats save on overall operation costs and project time, especially during installation and removal. Compared to alternative matting solutions the DURA-BASE System™ is easier to deploy and move, more durable, and longer lasting. The DURA-BASE mats incorporated into the new DURA-BASE EPZ Grounding System utilizes the proven DURA-BASE Mat System™ to provide a utility work platform that enables the user to ensure compliance with industry and regulatory standards, reduce costs, and provide a safer work environment to their personnel.
“Utility companies and their contractors face tighter safety standards and increased environmental scrutiny, and we are offering a cost-effective, fully integrated solution to meet these demands,” said Matthew Lanigan, who was recently appointed to Corporate Vice President and President of Newpark Mats and Integrated Services. “Our advanced composite mats give customers better access and improved on-site safety for sensitive terrains or private property, even in difficult or challenging weather.”
