Who We Are

Who We Are

Hercules Structure, Joint and Vibration Isolation Systems have been used in thousand of projects throughout the world since its establishment in Australia in 1972. They are technically mature and have gained a reputation for their quality products and technical expertise.

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Retrofitting and Rehabilitation of Existing Structures

At Hercules Structural Systems, we provide expert structural retrofitting services. We specialize in enhancing the resilience and functionality of existing structures through advanced structural rehabilitation techniques. Our key services include:

1. Structural Rehabilitation with FRP Wrapping

One of the most effective modern strengthening techniques is FRP wrapping. Specifically, this method involves applying high-strength, lightweight composite fabrics (like carbon or glass fiber) to existing structural elements. As a result, it significantly increases the flexural, shear, and axial strength of columns and beams. Furthermore, it enhances ductility without adding significant weight, making it an ideal solution for improving load capacity and seismic performance.

  • A close-up of a concrete column with exposed rebar and red arrows indicating the application points for CFRP in structural retrofitting services.
  • Experimental setup showing a concrete beam wrapped with CFRP, instrumented with sensors for testing during structural retrofitting services.
  • A large concrete column undergoing a load test in a laboratory, demonstrating structural strengthening techniques.
  • A close-up of a concrete beam with attached sensors, monitoring strain during a strengthening application.
  • A technical specification chart for the Hercules LMK post-tensioning system, detailing strand properties and available anchorage types.

2. Our External Prestressing Retrofitting Service

External prestressing is a powerful technique for increasing the load-carrying capacity of beams and slabs. In essence, we apply compressive stress to a structure by installing high-strength steel tendons or bars on the exterior of the member. This process effectively counteracts the tensile stresses caused by service loads. Consequently, it helps control deflections, reduces cracking, and can dramatically extend the service life of aging bridges and buildings.

  • A concrete beam undergoing a load test to analyze its performance, a key step in our structural retrofitting services.
  • A detailed engineering schematic showing the reinforcement design and cross-section details of a concrete frame.

3. Advanced Seismic Retrofitting Using Base Isolation

For seismic protection, base isolation is a premier structural retrofitting solution. This advanced technique involves decoupling the entire structure from its foundation by installing specialized bearings. For instance, our Triple Pendulum Bearings allow the ground to move during an earthquake while the structure above remains relatively still. Ultimately, this drastically reduces the seismic forces transmitted into the building, protecting both the structure and its occupants.

  • A 3D model of a Hercules square base isolator with a branded top plate, designed for seismic protection.
  • A rendered image of an assembled elastomeric bearing, a key component in our structural retrofitting services.
  • A 3D rendering of a lead rubber bearing, showing the alternating layers of rubber and steel.
  • A 3D model of a blue triple pendulum bearing with the top and bottom plates separated to show the inner workings of the seismic isolator.
  • A long production line with blue machinery inside a factory for manufacturing structural bearings.
  • A blue Hercules POT Bearing installed on a concrete plinth, featuring a measurement scale to show longitudinal displacement.

4. Vibration Control: A Key Structural Retrofitting Service

Vibration energy dissipation devices act like shock absorbers for a structure. These components are designed to absorb and dissipate energy from seismic events or high winds. We offer a range of solutions, including advanced Viscous Dampers, which can be strategically installed to reduce structural vibrations. Therefore, these devices protect the integrity of the building and minimize damage to both structural and non-structural elements.

  • A 3D model of a compact Hercules viscous damper with clevis mounts, designed for vibration control.
  • Close-up rendering of the Hercules Structural Systems branding on a vibration dissipation device.
  • Workers installing a large viscous damper on a bridge, a key part of our structural retrofitting services.
  • Viscous dampers installed on a concrete bridge pier, showcasing a completed structural retrofitting services project.
  • A detailed 3D model of an advanced viscous damper equipped with electronic monitoring sensors.

5. Structural Column Rehabilitation with Steel Jacketing

Steel jacketing is a robust and widely-used method for strengthening existing columns, particularly for seismic upgrades. This technique involves encasing a vulnerable concrete column with fabricated steel plates or sections. Afterwards, we often inject high-strength grout into the space between the steel and the concrete. This creates a composite member with vastly improved strength, stiffness, and ductility.

  • A 3D rendering of a concrete column strengthened with steel jacketing, a key technique in our structural retrofitting services.

6. Concrete Jacketing: A Structural Strengthening Service

Concrete jacketing is a traditional yet highly effective structural rehabilitation technique. This process involves adding a new layer of reinforced concrete around an existing structural member, such as a column or beam. In addition to increasing the member’s size, this method adds new steel reinforcement. This boosts the overall load capacity and stiffness, making it a reliable solution for correcting design deficiencies or repairing damage, in line with standards from organizations like the American Concrete Institute (ACI).

  • Engineering diagrams showing the reinforcement layout and dimensions for several concrete beam designs.
  • Photographs showing the preparation of a concrete column for jacketing, with new rebar and anchor plates installed.
  • An on-site view of concrete jacketing being applied to a beam, a key part of our structural retrofitting services.