WHAT IS THE OBIC ARMOR SYSTEM?

MULTI-LAYER SYSTEM IS BUILT TO PROTECT & DESIGNED TO PERFORM FOR DECADES

OBIC Armor provides a fast, easy, and cost-effective method for repairing and preventing damage to municipal and industrial sewers, as well as potable water systems. The spray-applied OBIC 1000 (flexible polyurea) cures quickly, making it an ideal choice for rehabilitation projects. OBIC Armor is a multi-layer lining system, consisting of OBIC 1306 closed-cell foam sandwiched between two layers of OBIC 1000.

BENEFITS OF OBIC 1000 (POLYUREA)

OBIC 1000 is the lining of choice in the wastewater industry for numerous reasons:

  • Chemical Resistance: OBIC 1000 is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals and corrosive substances commonly found in wastewater environments, helping to protect structures from degradation. OBIC 1000 has passed the Severe Wastewater Analysis Test “SWAT” as outlined in ASTM G210-13.

  • Waterproofing: It creates a seamless and waterproof barrier, preventing water infiltration and corrosion of infrastructure.

  • Durability and Abrasion Resistance: OBIC 1000 is exceptionally durable, with high abrasion resistance, making it ideal for withstanding the harsh conditions in wastewater treatment facilities, pump stations, and manholes.

  • Fast Cure Time: Polyurea coatings cure rapidly. OBIC 1000 is tack-free in 20-30 seconds, reducing downtime during application and allowing for a quick return to service.

  • Flexible and Durable: OBIC 1000 is highly flexible, 395% elongation, and can withstand thermal expansion and contraction, eliminating cracks under temperature changes.

  • Longevity: OBIC 1000 has a long service life, reducing the need for reapplications and maintenance, which can be costly in the wastewater industry.

  • Seamless Application: The ability to apply OBIC 1000 as a seamless coating reduces the likelihood of leaks and weak points in the protective layer.

  • Eliminates Chimney Seals: Since the OBIC Armor system is a continuous monolithic system from bench of the invert up to where it’s attached to the casting (manhole frame) there is no need for additional cost of chimney seals.

  • No VOCs: OBIC 1000 is 100% solid, so there are zero VOCs.

WHY ADD OBIC 1306 (CLOSED-CELL FOAM)?

The addition of the OBIC 1306, or the surfacing layer, has multiple advantages:

  • Surfacer: When dealing with brick/block manholes, or structures that have voids, it works to help smooth or level out these surfaces to provide a better finished product. It expands to fill cracks, joints, voids, and bug holes in the substrate, improving structural integrity.

  • Strength: It adds structural enhancement or reinforcement into the structure. Think of it like a piece of plywood. If you were to dissect the sheet of plywood, while any single layer of the wood has strength of its own, when combined with multiple layers of additional wood it proves to be extremely strong as a system.

HOW DOES OBIC ARMOR WORK?

Once the certified installer arrives on the project site and completes all safety-related tasks, the following steps are followed:

  • Structure is prepped using high pressure water.

  • Manhole frame is cleaned and OBIC primer is applied.

  • All leaks are stopped using OBIC leak stop solutions.

  • The structure is dried to a saturation of surface dry. This is accomplished when you can touch the structure wall and once you pull it away there is no moisture on your hand.

  • Adhesion Layer is applied. This is the first coat of OBIC 1000 and is applied at a thickness of 50 mils. This layer is attached to the bottom portion of the manhole casting to provide a monolithic liner system.

  • Surfacing Layer is applied. This is the OBIC 1306 (closed-cell foam) and the layer is about 400 mils thick.

  • The OBIC Armor System is completed by applying the Final Barrier Layer of OBIC 1000 at a wet film thickness of 50 mils. The complete OBIC Armor lining system is approximately 500 mils thick (1/2").

  • The final step of the process is validating the installation by stamping both the date of the liner installation and the OBIC logo into the liner. The 10-year warranty starts from this date and there is never a question as to when the liner was installed.

WHY USE THE OBIC ARMOR SYSTEM?

OBIC Armor, a specialized structural enhancement coating system, offers many advantages over a single coat of polyurea.

  • Backed by a Warranty Like No Other: OBIC Armor is backed by a 10-year warranty on both the material and installation.

  • Structural Reinforcement: OBIC Armor is designed to provide structural reinforcement to deteriorating manholes, restoring the integrity and preventing further damage.

  • Chemical Resistance: It offers excellent resistance to chemical corrosion, it is impervious to hydrogen sulfide (H2S), protecting manholes from the harsh and corrosive elements found in wastewater systems.

  • Rapid Cure Time: OBIC Armor has a fast-curing process, allowing for quick return to service, minimizing disruptions in the wastewater system. OBIC 1000 is tack-free is 20-30 seconds.

  • High Build Thickness: It can be applied in relatively thick layers, ensuring a robust protective barrier and effectively sealing cracks and defects in the manhole structure.

  • Bond Strength: The coating forms a strong bond with the existing manhole substrate, ensuring long-term adhesion and durability.

  • Reduced Infiltration and Exfiltration: OBIC Armor seals joints, cracks, and defects in manholes, reducing the risk of water infiltration and exfiltration, which can be environmentally and economically problematic.

  • Longevity: It has a 50-year design life.

  • Versatility: OBIC Armor can be customized for specific project requirements. Our team of chemists will work with you to ensure you get the proper coating for your project.

  • Return on Investment (ROI): Rehabilitating multiple manholes with OBIC Armor can significantly reduce the amount of groundwater treated. For instance, rehabilitating 10 manholes eliminates enough groundwater to allow 82 new homes to connect to the system. This results in a ROI in approximately 15 months.

  • Environmentally Friendly: By rehabilitating manholes instead of replacing them, OBIC Armor can help minimize the environmental impact associated with construction and demolition.

LET’S CONNECT!

LOOKING TO BECOME AN INSTALLER, SCHEDULE A DEMO, OR GET MORE INFORMATION?

CONTACT US

OR GIVE US A CALL AT 866-636-4854 AND A MEMBER OF OUR TEAM WILL BE HAPPY TO HELP YOU.

 

Chief Financial Officer

KRISTI KIMPEL

With more than 16 years of experience in the trenchless technology industry, Kristi has been with OBIC since the company’s conception. In that time, Kristi has worn many hats while managing the front office: accounting, safety, marketing, event planning, insurance, and shipping and receiving, just to name a few.

Prior to joining the OBIC team, Kristi worked for a transportation broker as an onsite representative for the customers while also serving as an internal transportation specialist. She stays involved in the local manufacturing industry by maintaining active membership in the Black Swamp Safety Council. In addition, she participates in leadership positions for Williams County, learning how the community works and using it as an avenue to be more involved.

In her free time, Kristi stays busy with her two kids who are involved in a variety of extracurricular clubs and sports. She also serves as a school board member and as an archery coach where she is committed to teaching archery basics as well as important life skills. She is passionate about growing and leading women in discipleship programs and wants to positively influence others around her.

 

Physical Properties:

  • Z

    Tensile Strength: 3351 psi
  • Z

    Elongation: 395%
  • Z

    Hardness: 48D
  • Z

    Tear Resistance: 417 pli
  • Z

    SWAT ASTM G210: Pass

CEO/Chief Visionary Officer

DUSTIN SCHLACHTER

Dustin Schlachter is dedicated to providing water and wastewater system repair and maintenance solutions that are both affordable and long-lasting. With a visionary mindset, he is responsible for setting the strategic course for OBIC and ensuring high growth initiatives and strong partnerships as he leads the company toward the future.

Dustin’s entrepreneurial aspiration has held him captive to the trenchless technology field since 1999 when he and his father founded S&S Directional Boring. No stranger to change management, he has successfully led multiple companies as they embraced new infrastructure rehabilitation technologies. In 2007, Dustin founded Advanced Rehabilitation Technology where he continued to grow and expand his work to include infrastructure rehabilitation through lining and coating system applications. This expansion allowed him to strengthen the executive and visionary skills he would need one day to lead a global company.

Dustin continues to expand upon and share his knowledge of the industry by serving as a member and past president of the Great Lakes Trenchless Association. He is also an active member of the National Association of Sewer Service Companies and the Water Environment Federation.

A devoted husband and father of three, Dustin finds enjoyment and relaxation in outdoor activities like landscaping and gardening. Dustin is dedicated to learning and growing in faith, and his life goal is to help others grow as well.​

 

Marketing Manager

Lee Drugan

Lee Drugan is a seasoned Marketing Manager with over 12 years of experience, specializing in bridging the gap between complex industries and their audiences. Lee’s core passion lies in helping companies and individuals understand their ‘Why’ – which is usually a great connection between customer and the company they choose to work with.

Lee’s approach to marketing is defined by adaptability, integrity, and confidence. Understanding that change is constant and trust is essential, Lee develops marketing strategies that genuinely connect with audiences. With a Degree in Management/Marketing from Ashland University, he has expertise in adaptive strategies, digital marketing, and video/content creation, allowing him to create engaging and educational content that leaves a lasting impact.

In current roles, particularly as Marketing Manager for OBIC, Lee is responsible for all facets of marketing and advertising. Lee thrives on the challenge of highlighting the critical role of infrastructure maintenance. His marketing philosophy highlights the power of engaging and educational content, with a strong focus on brand perception and lasting results.

Outside of work, Lee finds joy in traveling with his family and creating opportunities for his kids to excel in what they love.

 

 

Member & Business Development

TROY REED

Troy is responsible for member and business development at OBIC and brings over 35 years of experience in water and wastewater infrastructure construction to the position. From fieldwork to project management, Troy’s industry experience includes a proven track record of expertly communicating a client’s objectives to the crews who are performing the work on-site. No stranger to coordinating high-priority projects, Troy ensures client satisfaction while successfully managing multiple crews of up to 130 employees who are working simultaneously on water and wastewater infrastructure projects on both residential and commercial sites.

Troy’s favorite pastimes include boating, fishing and camping, but his true passion is spending time with his three grandchildren. Although his work schedule keeps him busy, Troy and his wife enjoying finding time to rehabilitate houses.

 

Director of Corporate Training

TREY RUSSELL HESSELSCHWARDT

Before holding the Director of Corporate Training role for OBIC, Trey held various positions including Crew Leader, Project Manager, and Safety Manager at Advanced Rehabilitation Technology (ART), an OBIC certified installer.

As OBIC’s Director of Corporate Training, Trey leads the development and delivery of training programs that ensure applicators are well-versed in OBIC products, equipment, and best practices. He provides hands-on instruction in product use and maintenance, while also contributing to ongoing research and development efforts. His technical knowledge and field experience makes him a trusted resource for both internal teams and external partners, guiding customers in selecting and applying the right solutions for their needs.

Trey holds an Associate Degree in Project Management Technology and maintains several professional certifications, including BCSP Certified Health and Safety Technician, OSHA 40-Hour Certification, and Confined Space Certification. He currently serves as Treasurer for the Polyurea Development Association (PDA), where he supports the advancement of industry standards and practices.

Prior to joining ART, Trey served honorably in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic for seven years, a background that reflects his strong sense of discipline, leadership, and service.

Outside of work, Trey enjoys spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and hunting with his wife Jamie and their two sons, Jones and Charlie. He’s also an avid sports fan and a proud supporter of the University of Michigan.

 

 

Director of Technology

BOB KLOPFENSTEIN

Bob Klopfenstein has been with OBIC since July of 2018. With over 35 years in the chemical and sewer lining coating, Bob has experience working with clients in every industry that OBIC serves. Over the past 15 years, his focus has been on offering repair and maintenance solutions for the water and wastewater structure rehabilitation industry.

Bob holds a bachelor’s degree from Bradley University and stays current on industry challenges and trends by participating in professional organizations that include the Water Environment Federation, National Association of Sewer Service Companies and North American Society for Trenchless Technology.

In his free time, Bob enjoys golfing, gardening and wine collecting.

 

Vice President of Business Development

MIKE HOFFMASTER

Mike Hoffmaster has over 38 years of experience working in the construction industry, with the last 14 spent in trenchless technology. His experience, which includes working with local construction firms and national manufacturers, makes him uniquely qualified to support and develop OBIC’s network of certified installers and to introduce OBIC products to new markets.

Mike earned his bachelor of science from Shepard University while working full-time in a precast concrete plant. He has helped to open new markets across North America and in Europe. Mike is active with numerous industry organizations, committees and serves on several Board of Directors.

Committed to giving back to his community, Mike has served as the track and field organizer for the Special Olympics for over 32 years and has volunteered with local high school athletics for 37 years. In his free time, Mike enjoys cooking, traveling and photography.