As winter approaches and the temperature gradually drops, the problem of ice formation on plastic runways has become a headache for many sports venue managers and users. The icy plastic runway not only affects its appearance but also makes the runway surface slippery, greatly increasing the risk of sports injuries. In severe cases, it may even lead to damage to the runway and shorten its service life. So, in the face of the difficult problem of ice formation on plastic runways in winter, how can we effectively solve it? Don’t worry. This article will analyze in detail various practical solutions for you.
Ⅰ. Focus on prevention: Take preventive measures in advance🛠️
Ⅱ. Physical deicing methods: Quickly and efficiently remove ice layers🧹
When ice has already formed on the plastic runway, physical deicing methods are commonly used and effective means.
Among them, the most straightforward method is to use shovels or special deicing tools to carefully remove the ice layer on the runway surface. During the removal process, attention should be paid to controlling the strength and angle to avoid damaging the runway surface. This method is suitable for cases where the ice layer is thin and the area is small, and it can quickly restore part of the usage function of the runway.
Another physical deicing method is to use heat to melt the ice layer. Tools such as hot air blowers, heating pads or hot water can be used to heat the icy area. The hot air blower can generate high-temperature air flow to quickly melt the ice layer; the heating pad can be laid on the ice layer to melt the ice through continuous heat transfer; when using hot water to pour on the ice layer, attention should be paid to controlling the water temperature not to be too high to avoid thermal damage to the plastic runway. This thermal deicing method has a more significant effect on large areas of ice layers, but during the operation process, safety should be ensured to prevent scald accidents.
Ⅲ. Chemical deicing agents: A double-edged sword that needs to be used with caution⚖️
Chemical deicing agents are also an option for solving the problem of ice formation on plastic runways, but they need to be used with caution. The main working principle of deicing agents is to lower the freezing point of water so that the ice layer can melt even at lower temperatures. Common deicing agents include sodium chloride (table salt), calcium chloride, potassium acetate, etc. When using chemical deicing agents, dilution and spraying should be carried out strictly in accordance with the product instructions. Generally speaking, evenly spread the deicing agents on the icy runway surface, and after they react with the ice layer, use tools to remove the melted ice water.
However, chemical deicing agents are not without drawbacks. If used improperly or in excessive amounts, they may cause corrosion and damage to the plastic runway, affecting its elasticity and durability. Especially some deicing agents containing chloride ions may cause the runway surface to fade, age or even crack after long-term use. Therefore, when choosing chemical deicing agents, priority should be given to products that are less corrosive to plastic runways, and the runway should be rinsed in time after use to reduce the residue of deicing agents.
Ⅳ. Covering protection: Isolate the contact between snow and the runway🛡️
Before the arrival of snowy weather in winter, covering protection for the plastic runway is a simple and effective preventive measure against ice formation.
Special runway protective films, waterproof canvas or plastic sheets and other materials can be used to completely cover the runway surface. This can effectively prevent snowflakes from falling on the runway and avoid ice formation after snow melting. When covering, make sure that the covering materials are firmly fixed to prevent being blown away by the wind. Meanwhile, pay attention to leaving a certain drainage channel at the edge of the runway so that water can be smoothly drained during rainfall or snow melting.
This covering protection method can not only prevent ice formation but also reduce the erosion and damage to the runway caused by long-term exposure to harsh weather conditions. After the snow stops, timely clean the snow on the covering materials and check whether there is water accumulation or ice formation on the runway. If necessary, take corresponding deicing measures.
Ⅴ. Daily management and monitoring: Ensure the safety of the runway in winter👀
In addition to the specific solutions to the problem of ice formation on plastic runways mentioned above, daily management and monitoring work cannot be ignored either. In winter, the frequency of inspections on the runway should be increased, especially during periods when the temperature is low and there is more precipitation. Timely detect abnormal situations on the runway surface, such as water accumulation, ice formation, and damages, and immediately take measures to deal with them.
At the same time, establish a complete runway maintenance record file, record information such as each maintenance and repair, deicing operations and the usage status of the runway. This helps to analyze the operation situation of the runway in winter, summarize experience and lessons, and provide a reference basis for future maintenance and management work. In addition, strengthen the safety education for users and remind them to pay attention to anti-slip when using the plastic runway in winter to avoid accidents caused by the icy runway.
Ⅵ. Conclusion🥳
Although the problem of ice formation on plastic runways in winter has brought us certain troubles, through comprehensive measures such as focusing on prevention, combining various deicing methods and strengthening daily management and monitoring, we can completely and effectively solve this problem and ensure that the plastic runway can maintain good performance and safety in winter. Let our athletes still be able to run freely on the plastic runway and enjoy the joy of sports in the cold winter days!