RATS Edmonton Technical Sessions - Nov 2026

RATS Technical Sessions - Pump Ballast Void Filling Best Practices THIS MONTH'S TOPIC: Pump Ballast Void Filling Best Practices PRESENTER: Cam Berard, Technical Sales Representative, Chinook Industrial Ltd. ABSTRACT: Improper machinery grouting is a leading cause of severe equipment vibration, premature component failure, and misaligned pump skids. This technical session breaks down the critical mechanics of energy transfer between dynamic equipment platforms and concrete foundations. You will learn how high-quality epoxy grouting establishes monolithic contact to absorb dynamic forces, dampen natural frequencies, and safeguard the structural integrity of your foundation. The presentation delivers field-tested methodologies for both new installations and critical remediation. Industry experts will walk through the exact steps for mapping hidden voids under baseplates by sound, executing precise pressure-injection repairs, and calculating correct grout-to-vent hole configurations. Additionally, the session dives into the critical chemistry of exotherm cure curves, demonstrating how strict material temperature preconditioning (21°C to 28°C) prevents the shrinking and contracting that compromises asset longevity. Whether you are managing complex one-stage pours or executing advanced two-stage "sandwich" pours, this presentation provides the exact specifications and standard alignments required to optimize machinery performance. Bring your toughest field challenges and leave with actionable engineering practices you can deploy on your deck immediately. ABOUT RATS TECHNICAL SESSIONS These Technical Sessions are open to all people involved with the industrial rotating equipment industry, including (but not limited to): Engineers, technologists, specialists, technicians, millwrights, planners, managers, projects, students, retirees, vendors, and those in transition. MISSION RATS' mission is to build community and comradery in the rotating equipment industry by sharing acquired knowledge, fostering education, and career development, through organized events with the support of industry sponsorship. https://rotatingspecialist.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rotating-and-turbomachinery-society/ Community Support At each Technical Sessions event, we will raffle off a door-prize, provided by the featured presenter. Each REGISTERED attendee will get (1) entry into the draw with the option to purchase additional entries for $5 each to increase your chances of winning. ALL funds raised will be split between the two chosen organizations (WIN House and Veterans Association Food Bank) at the end of the year.