One of the biggest risks in an athletics field project is the difficulties brought by climatic conditions. Particularly regionally varying heavy rainfall regimes and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles have the potential to cause permanent damage to the infrastructure of the field and the tartan track.

SFS Engineering, one of the leading companies in Türkiye's sports production sector, acts with the mission of carrying out projects not only at national but also international standards. In each of our projects, we aim to produce sustainable solutions that combine aesthetics and functionality by combining our engineering knowledge with innovative technologies. One of the last projects we undertook in this context was an exemplary sports construction project, which included the construction of an athletics field at international standards and the tartan track around it.

In this case study, we focus on one of the most critical components of the project: the ground infrastructure and water management system. In this area, which is vital for the long-lasting performance of the facility, we went beyond traditional methods and used high-performance composite duct technology. In the article, we will examine in detail how we combated the difficult climate and ground conditions encountered during the construction of the athletics field and how this advanced technology played a key role in the success of the project. This analysis reveals not only our engineering solutions, but also our leadership and proactive approaches in the sector.

SFS EngineeringHow did W.A. implement composite channel drainage system in certified athletic field? Discover the Tartan track and field integration details.

 

Challenge 1: Need for Ground Protection and Excessive Water Discharge

One of the biggest risks in an athletics field project is the difficulties brought by climatic conditions. Particularly regionally varying heavy rainfall regimes and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles have the potential to cause permanent damage to the infrastructure of the field and the tartan track. Water accumulating on the surface not only increases the risk of slips and injuries for athletes, but also causes the granular layers under the ground to become saturated and lose their bearing capacity. This may cause the track to lose its flexibility over time, cause cracks and blisters on the surface, and shorten the life of the entire investment.

traditional drainage systems, It may often be insufficient to manage such intense and sudden water flow. Especially grass field Accumulation of water at the junction points of the track and track accelerates the deterioration of ground materials in these areas. At the beginning of the project, our aim was not only to drain the water, but also to protect the subsoil structure of the site and ensure excellent performance in all weather conditions. This was not only an engineering challenge, but also a demonstration of our commitment to the sustainability of the facility and athlete health.

Our Engineering Solution: High Flow Composite Channel Network and Multi-Tier Infrastructure

To meet this huge challenge, we took a groundbreaking approach to the drainage system that forms the basis of the project. We installed a composite channel network designed and placed at special slopes to completely surround the track. Unlike traditional concrete or polymer concrete channels, the composite materials we use have exceptional durability, lightness and chemical resistance. These channels offer the ability to quickly collect and drain water from the track surface and infrastructure at a very high flow rate.

During the application process, we first prepared the canal bed with a precise laser leveling process. Then, we placed the channels with millimetric precision and connected them to the main drainage line. This system preserved the integrity of the ground by collecting not only surface water, but also water leaking into the flexible polyurethane and granule layers underneath the Full PU system, which is the top layer of the track. This multi-layered infrastructure design ensured that the ground constantly remained at the ideal moisture level, thus preventing future structural deterioration.

 

Challenge 2: Integration of Different Floors and Ease of Maintenance

In the construction of an athletics field, one of the biggest logistical and engineering challenges is the integration of the tartan track and infield turf. These two different floor types have independent maintenance processes and surface requirements. Creating a proper drainage system at the edges of the track, where the grounds meet, was critical to maintaining the integrity of both the field and the track. Improperly designed drainage at these points can lead to deterioration in both floor types over time, increase maintenance costs, and deteriorate the overall aesthetics of the facility. Additionally, the drainage grids used had to not affect the athletes' running performance and not constitute an obstacle for maintenance vehicles (e.g. lawn mowers).

 

Our Engineering Solution: Precision Design and Bidirectional Drainage Systems

To overcome this integration challenge, we developed a drainage solution that works independently but synchronously for two different soil types. The composite channel line placed around the track was designed with a special slope to not only collect the water coming from the track surface, but also direct the excess water accumulated on the edges of the infield into the channels. This two-way system prevented water from accumulating in any area, ensuring that both the grass field and the tartan track were constantly dry and ready for use.

Functionality and security were prioritized in channel covers. We chose specially designed grills that will not block the athletes' running path, have an anti-slip surface, and also have a high load-carrying capacity. These grilles were designed to accommodate the passage of maintenance vehicles, allowing regular maintenance processes to continue without disruption. This detailed engineering approach ensured the smooth operation of the project not only during the construction phase but for many years to come.

 

Conclusion: The Key to Durability and High Performance: Composite Duct and SFS Engineering Expertise

This completed sports construction project is a testament to SFS Engineering's commitment and expertise in the sector. We implement innovative composite channel The drainage system enabled the facility to operate at peak performance not only after construction but for many years to come. Thanks to this technology, the maintenance costs of the facility have been significantly reduced, its lifespan has been extended, and most importantly, a safe and ideal ground has been provided for athletes at all times of the year. Our project has become a reference point in athletics field construction and left a functional, aesthetic and sustainable legacy to our country and the sports community. As SFS Engineering, we continue to build the sports facilities of the future without compromising our principles of knowledge and honesty.

 

Are you looking for an innovative and sustainable drainage solution for your project? Contact our expert team and get a special quote for your project.