OBIC Products Help to Rehabilitate Aging Infrastructure in Germany

Nov 23, 2024 | Installer Spotlight

OBIC has been steadily growing its presence in the European market, particularly in Germany, where the need to restore aging infrastructure presents both challenges and opportunities. A recent project in Stassfurt, a historic salt mining town 2 hours southwest of Berlin, highlights OBIC’s capabilities and its commitment to delivering innovative solutions anywhere in the world.

The project in Stassfurt involved a steel tank used to store saturated saltwater, a critical component in the salt mining process. As metal and salt notoriously don’t mix well, the 39-foot tall by 26-foot diameter steel tank had significant corrosion and rough surfaces due to the harsh salt mixture.

Doug Simmons, Operations Director, traveled to Germany to help in this rehabilitation effort. “It was a great opportunity to help a new installer apply the OBIC Armor System to give this steel tank new life,” he said.

Tearing down and replacing the aging tank with a new one was not a viable option due to Germany’s stringent permitting process and red tape for new construction, so rehabilitation was the most efficient and cost-effective solution. The OBIC Armor System was chosen to restore the tank and extend its life for its chemical-resistant properties. OBIC Armor is a multi-layer lining system, consisting of OBIC 1306 closed-cell foam sandwiched between two polyurea layers of OBIC 1000.  OBIC 1000 is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals and corrosive substances commonly found in harsh environments, helping to protect structures from degradation.

OBIC felt it was important to have a representative from the company onsite to ensure the substrate was in perfect condition for lining, as well as the primer and foam were installed correctly.  This is not an uncommon training practice for new applicator crews and it’s a testament of dedication to OBIC’s global certified network of installers.  In addition, lining a steel tank is a very tricky and timely process as flash rust will occur on metal surfaces within minutes to a few hours after sandblasting.

While Simmons was on-site at the tank project from Tuesday through Thursday, all three layers of the OBIC Armor were applied from the top of the tank to two feet above the floor.  At that point, the scaffolding could be removed to finish the job the following week.

By using  OBIC Armor, the project restored the tank’s structural integrity and provided a long-lasting solution to withstand the corrosive saltwater environment.  The success of this project could pave the way for more OBIC applications in the region.

The project in Stassfurt marked another milestone for OBIC in Europe, thanks to the efforts of Roland Stuiber, OBIC’s European distributor. Having built a strong relationship with Roland over multiple visits to the EMEA region, Simmons was well-prepared to assist. “I had been working with Roland on this project remotely. This trip was about hands-on training and ensuring the installation met OBIC’s high standards,” Simmons shared.

OBIC’s growth in Germany and the broader EMEA region has been focused on building relationships with companies like Swietelsky-Faber, providing training, and laying the groundwork for larger-scale projects. Simmons noted, “This year has been about setting the stage. Next year, we anticipate even more opportunities as our partner companies have been impressed with what OBIC offers.”

If you’d like to learn more about our OBIC-certified installer network, discuss your next project, or schedule a demo, please send an email to info@obicproducts.com or call 866-636-4854 and 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%
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    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.